The harpsichord used in this recording is a copy of a German instrument from 1702-04 by Michael Mietke, owned by the Dunedin Consort, and is tuned to a' = 415Hz.
Cultural Impact
The Well-Tempered Clavier had a tremendous influence behind the scenes, with figures like Beethoven and Mozart studying it before its first print publication, which was over 50 years after Bach's death.
Recording & Production
This recording uses recent editions of The Well-Tempered Clavier that present the latest possible stage of Bach's thoughts for each book, rather than earlier versions.
Composer's Artistic Vision
J.S. Bach designed The Well-Tempered Clavier to be both highly instructive for students and enjoyable for skilled musicians.
Performer Biography
John Butt, the harpsichordist, is the Gardiner Professor of Music at the University of Glasgow and musical director of Edinburgh's Dunedin Consort.
Compositional Technique
The Well-Tempered Clavier comprehensively surveys all keys available within the tonal system, a relatively recent possibility due to keyboard tuning advancements.
