Immerse yourself in the elegant and refined world of Johann Christoph Friedrich Bach with the album "Johann Christoph Friedrich Bach: Sonatas pour traverso & Clavecin." Released on June 14, 2019, under the label Les Belles Ecouteuses, this classical masterpiece is a testament to the composer's virtuosity and the exquisite collaboration between flutist Marie van Rhijn and harpsichordist Ayumi Sunazaki.
The album features a captivating collection of 16 tracks, spanning a total duration of 1 hour and 10 minutes. It showcases three sonatas composed by Johann Christoph Friedrich Bach, along with additional works by George Tromlitz. The pieces are performed with remarkable skill and sensitivity, highlighting the intricate interplay between the traverso (baroque flute) and the clavecin (harpsichord).
The sonatas are a delightful blend of Baroque and Early Classical styles, characterized by their graceful melodies, intricate counterpoint, and lively rhythms. The album opens with the Sonata pour traverso & clavecin IV en do majeur, HW VIII/3.4, followed by the Sonata pour traverso & clavecin V en la majeur, HW VIII/3.5, and concludes with the Sonata pour traverso & clavecin I en ré mineur, HW VIII/3.1. Each sonata is divided into multiple movements, offering a diverse range of moods and tempos.
In addition to the sonatas, the album includes a solfeggio and a partita for solo traverso, as well as a charming canzonette with variations on "Vous dirai-je, Maman," a tune familiar to many as the theme of the famous "Twinkle Twinkle Little Star."
This album is a must-listen for enthusiasts of classical music, particularly those with a fondness for the Baroque and Early Classical periods. The performances by Marie van Rhijn and Ayumi Sunazaki are nothing short of exceptional, bringing to life the timeless beauty of Johann Christoph Friedrich Bach's compositions. Whether you are a seasoned classical music aficionado or a newcomer to the genre, this album promises a rewarding and enriching listening experience.