Leonard Slatkin conducts the BBC Philharmonic in a fascinating collection of Bach Transcriptions.

With the wealth of Bach recordings being issued in the two hundredth and fiftieth anniversary of his death, this disc gave an interesting alternative viewpoint and makes for an excellent addition to the catalogue.

The outstanding talents of the BBC Philharmonic are evident once again in this new recording. They have previously recorded four discs of orchestral transcriptions, including Stokowski’s Symphonic Bach (CHAN 9259).



‘In these days of “historically informed” performances it might seem anachronistic, even heretical to present a programme of orchestral transcriptions of works by Bach. But there are two compelling reasons to do this.

The first is that we are presenting pieces in versions made by other composers. In each case it is clear that the transcriptions are made with the deepest respect for Bach’s genius. Clearly, the transcribers were trying to bring the master’s works to a wider public via these orchestrations. It must be remembered that Bach’s popularity is largely a product of the mid- to late-twentieth century.

This brings us to the second reason. For several generations Bach’s music was heard first in various orchestral versions rather than in its original form. Therefore, this disc will represent for some listeners a kind of authenticity of first exposure. We are all influenced by music in the way we hear it for the first time: just as many will always associate The Sorcerer’s Apprentice with the film Fantasia, so will many people remember the sound of a full symphony orchestra as it brings Bach’s music to life.

It is my hope that you will enjoy the wonderful and inventive way in which each of the composers represented here has treated these works. We are reminded of the genius of Bach, who gave all of these creators the inspiration to be inventive.’
Leonard Slatkin

Slatkin is at his best here. He is equally interested in line and color, thereby supporting the aims of both Bach and the individual orchestrators…
‘What really makes this recording work is the superb playing of the orchestra. They really respond to Slatkin.’
…a fascinating and hugely enjoyable collection of Bach from various celebrated 20th-century composers played with great verve…
…these transcriptions bring out the grandeur of Bachs vision in his organ music…
‘The strings bring an incandescent glow to their sound, the sumptuous brass are thrilling, the wind solos lovingly phrased… Highly recommended.’
‘…BBC Philharmonic playing brilliantly. Chandos provides sensational sonics… definitely worth owning.’
‘’I cannot imagine anybody who genuinely loves music as a sensory and emotional experience not wanting this’.
‘Plainly the members of the BBC Philharmonic relished throughout his abandonment of modern authentic manners in Bach, playing with heartfelt expressiveness…’

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