Wednesday, February 8, 2012

J.S. Bach: Die Kunst der Fuge BWV 1080 - Isolde Ahlgrimm (on Pedal Harpsichord)

Johann Sebastian Bach
Die Kunst der Fuge BWV 1080
Isolde Ahlgrimm on Pedal Harpsichord
Friedericke Resele, harpsichord II


Tudor CD "Musique oblige" 7030


Among the many recordings of THE masterpiece of JSB this is a special one, recorded on the pedal harpsichord.
Ahlgrimm shows off a great understanding of the whole, using the power of the instrument with great accuracy and not overshadowing the other parts.
The pedal harpsichord helps in clarifying the polyphonic structure, and let the intricate counterpoint emerge in all its complexity.
Mrs Ahlgrimm was a fervent supporter of this great instrument (she recorded other Bach's works: Toccatas, Suites); historically justified or not? much debate about...and this disc is strongly in favour of the former.
Sound is a little raw, but the playing surely is not....

Enjoy!

P.S.  A link to get a little more info about the pedal harpsichord: here

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