Masaaki Suzuki, the harpsichordist on this recording, began playing the organ for church services at age 12 and later studied harpsichord and organ at the Sweelinck Conservatory in Amsterdam.
Historical Context
The term "well-tempered" in the title refers to a tuning method that allowed pieces to be played in all 24 keys, a concept uncommon at the time.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Bach's aim for the Well-Tempered Clavier was to compile a collection of pieces covering diverse styles at the highest level of artistic content and integrity, showcasing him as a composer, performer, and educator.
Composition History
The Well-Tempered Clavier was not published during Bach's lifetime, but manuscript copies made by his pupils spread throughout Europe, influencing composers like Mozart and Beethoven.
Cultural Impact
Bach's Well-Tempered Clavier is so fundamental to pianists that it has been called the "Pianists' Old Testament" by Hans von Bülow and "Pianists' daily bread" by Robert Schumann.
Composer Biography
Bach completed the Well-Tempered Clavier I in 1722, a crucial year in his career when he became dissatisfied with his position at the court of Anhalt-Cöthen and sought a new post in Leipzig.
Compositional Technique
The Well-Tempered Clavier I systematically presents preludes and fugues in all 24 major and minor keys, ascending chromatically from C major to B minor.
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Bach: The Well-Tempered Clavier II
Bach: The Well-tempered Clavier, Book One & Two, BWV 846-893
