Celebrating Bach by the Royal Northern Sinfonia is a captivating journey through the timeless melodies of Johann Sebastian Bach, interspersed with works by Igor Stravinsky. Released on October 5, 2009, under the Audio-B label, this album is a testament to the Royal Northern Sinfonia's virtuosity and their conductor Bradley Creswick's insightful direction. The album spans a variety of genres within the classical realm, including chamber music, and showcases the ensemble's versatility and depth.
The album features a selection of Bach's concertos, including the Oboe Concerto in D Minor, BWV 1059, and the Double Concerto in C Minor, BWV 1060, each performed with precision and passion. The Royal Northern Sinfonia's interpretation of Stravinsky's Concerto in E-Flat, 'Dumbarton Oaks', adds a modern twist to the classical repertoire, demonstrating the ensemble's ability to traverse different musical eras with ease. The Fantasia in Two Movements, 'The Stream', and the Concerto for Soprano Saxophone, Homage to Father Bach, further enrich the album's diverse offerings.
With a duration of 1 hour and 8 minutes, Celebrating Bach is a concise yet comprehensive exploration of Bach's enduring influence and the Royal Northern Sinfonia's mastery of his works. The album is a must-listen for classical music enthusiasts and those seeking to discover the timeless beauty of Bach's compositions.