Immerse yourself in the timeless elegance of Johann Sebastian Bach's Cello Suites, masterfully reinterpreted by the virtuoso pianist Leopold Godowsky. Released on April 1, 2011, under the label Music and Arts Programs of America, this album is a testament to Godowsky's extraordinary skill and his deep reverence for Bach's compositions.
The album features meticulous transcriptions of three of Bach's most celebrated Cello Suites: Suite No. 2 in D Minor, BWV 1008; Suite No. 3 in C Major, BWV 1009; and Suite No. 5 in C Minor, BWV 1011. Each suite is a journey through a variety of dance movements, from the contemplative Preludes to the lively Allemandes, Courantes, Sarabandes, Menuets, Bourrees, and Gigues. Godowsky's transcriptions bring a unique pianistic perspective to these works, showcasing the richness and complexity of Bach's original compositions while highlighting the expressive capabilities of the piano.
With a total duration of 1 hour and 7 minutes, this album offers a comprehensive exploration of Bach's Cello Suites, reimagined for the piano. Godowsky's interpretations are marked by their technical brilliance and profound musicality, making this album a captivating experience for both classical music enthusiasts and those new to the genre. Whether you are a seasoned listener or a curious explorer, this album promises to enrich your appreciation of Bach's timeless masterpieces and Godowsky's artistic genius.
2011 Music and Arts Programs of America2011 Music and Arts Programs of America
Tracks
J.S. Bach - Cello Suite No. 2 in D Minor, BWV 1008: I. Prelude. Andante cantabileLeopold Godowsky, Carlo Grante
J.S. Bach - Cello Suite No. 2 in D Minor, BWV 1008: II. Allemande. Allegro moderatoLeopold Godowsky, Carlo Grante
J.S. Bach - Cello Suite No. 2 in D Minor, BWV 1008: III. Courante: Allegro energicoLeopold Godowsky, Carlo Grante
J.S. Bach - Cello Suite No. 2 in D Minor, BWV 1008: IV. Sarabande. Largo, ma non troppoLeopold Godowsky, Carlo Grante
J.S. Bach - Cello Suite No. 2 in D Minor, BWV 1008: V. Menuet I and II: ModeratoLeopold Godowsky, Carlo Grante
J.S. Bach - Cello Suite No. 2 in D Minor, BWV 1008: VI. Gigue. Allegro decisoLeopold Godowsky, Carlo Grante
J.S. Bach - Cello Suite No. 3 in C Major, BWV 1009: I. Prelude. Allegro maestosoLeopold Godowsky, Carlo Grante
J.S. Bach - Cello Suite No. 3 in C Major, BWV 1009: II. Allemande. Allegretto scherzandoLeopold Godowsky, Carlo Grante
J.S. Bach - Cello Suite No. 3 in C Major, BWV 1009: III. Courante: MaestosoLeopold Godowsky, Carlo Grante
J.S. Bach - Cello Suite No. 3 in C Major, BWV 1009: IV. Sarabande. LargoLeopold Godowsky, Carlo Grante
J.S. Bach - Cello Suite No. 3 in C Major, BWV 1009: V. Bourree I and II: Allegro moderato - L'istesso tempoLeopold Godowsky, Carlo Grante
J.S. Bach - Cello Suite No. 3 in C Major, BWV 1009: VI. Gigue. Vivace giocosoLeopold Godowsky, Carlo Grante
J.S. Bach - Cello Suite No. 5 in C Minor, BWV 1011: I. Prelude and Fugue. Grave - Allegretto espressivoLeopold Godowsky, Carlo Grante
J.S. Bach - Cello Suite No. 5 in C Minor, BWV 1011: II. Allemande. Maestoso largamenteLeopold Godowsky, Carlo Grante
J.S. Bach - Cello Suite No. 5 in C Minor, BWV 1011: III. Courante: ModeratoLeopold Godowsky, Carlo Grante
J.S. Bach - Cello Suite No. 5 in C Minor, BWV 1011: IV. Sarabande. MestoLeopold Godowsky, Carlo Grante
J.S. Bach - Cello Suite No. 5 in C Minor, BWV 1011: V. Gavotte I and II: Allegretto espressivoLeopold Godowsky, Carlo Grante
J.S. Bach - Cello Suite No. 5 in C Minor, BWV 1011: VI. Gigue. Andantino espressivoLeopold Godowsky, Carlo Grante