Bach's partitas preserve the character and original steps of various dances, even those like the allemande that were no longer danced in his time.
Performer Biography
Edna Stern, the pianist on this recording, was trained by renowned pianists Krystian Zimerman and Leon Fleisher, and her playing has been praised for its "panache," "musicality," and "impeccable finish."
Interpretation
Pianist Edna Stern believes Bach's music transcends specific instruments and should elicit a "vocal approach" that emphasizes musical structure, voice connections, and expressive lines.
Instruments
The Imperial Theatre of Compiègne, where this album was recorded, acquired a new Concert Grand Steinway in 2014, which is the instrument Edna Stern plays.
Recording & Production
This recording was made in October 2014 at the Imperial Theatre of Compiègne, France, on a new Concert Grand Steinway piano acquired by the theatre that same year.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Bach's partitas, though titled "Clavier-Übung" (Clavichord Practice), were not merely student works but aimed to combine pleasure and instruction for music lovers.
Composition History
J.S. Bach composed his keyboard partitas in Leipzig between 1726 and 1731, publishing them himself as his Op. 1 under the title "Clavier-Übung" (Clavichord Practice).
You might also enjoy...
Bach: The Complete English Suites
J. S. Bach: The French Suites
Handel: Keyboard Suites, Vol. 1
Bach: French Suites, BWV 812-817
Bach, J.S.: French Suites Nos. 1-6/Italian Concerto etc.
