I’m looking for a good version of Bach’s Passacaglia in C Minor. One with drama and nice flavoring. I’m only coming up with lifeless versions, and this should be a powerful piece. Any suggestions? Hope so.
What’s your favorite Bach Passacaglia in C Minor (serious, looking for good one)
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2 responses to “What’s your favorite Bach Passacaglia in C Minor (serious, looking for good one)”
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Hi, I’ve been listening to lots of recordings of this recently as I’m playing it soon, but here are my opinions on what I’ve heard so far.
The best recordings are by organists who are re-exploring the ‘authentic interpretation,’ and one such recording is that of Peter Hurford on his Double CD ‘Bach, Grosse Orgelwerke’ Search Amazon ASIN B000004248 for a sample
But IMHO the best recording ever (of any of Bach’s organ works) is by Ton Koopman, who has a whole series on Teldec. My favorite recording is on the Archiv label, B0000057FG at Amazon, – historic reedy organ, with lots of improv ornamentation and flair. The fugue ends in a breathtaking climax – well worth adding this disc to the collection.
Hope this was some help!
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I’d been through Amazon listening to every clip and you’re right, the Koopman is beautiful. On your recommendation I’m ordering it as well as the Hurford. Thanks for taking the time to comment because I was seriously eager for pointers.
If you like reedy and flair you might want to check out my post on the Cadence Chamber Duet. Ivan Yergiyev plays the accordion and his wife Olena Yergiyeva plays the violin. Their interpretation of Albioni’s Adagio in G is amazing, full of incredible textures and twists.
A Ukrainian guitarist friend informs that there’s a tradition of playing Bach on the accordion in the Ukraine.
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