Immerse yourself in the timeless elegance of Johann Sebastian Bach's masterpieces, reimagined by the legendary harpsichordist Wanda Landowska. Released on May 1, 2012, under the Saar srl label, "Wanda Landowska Bach" is a captivating journey through some of Bach's most profound and intricate compositions.
The album opens with the iconic Goldberg Variations BWV 988, a work renowned for its complexity and beauty. Landowska's interpretation is a testament to her virtuosity, with each of the 30 variations and the central Aria da capo revealing new layers of depth and expression. Her playing is precise yet poetic, bringing out the intricate counterpoint and harmonic richness of Bach's music.
Following the Goldberg Variations, the album presents the Chromatic Fantasia and Fugue in D minor BWV 903, showcasing Landowska's ability to navigate the technical demands of the piece while maintaining a sense of musicality and flow. The Fantasia's free-form exploration of chromaticism is followed by the rigorous structure of the Fugue, demonstrating Bach's genius and Landowska's mastery.
The album concludes with the Toccata in D major BWV 912, a lively and virtuosic piece that highlights Landowska's technical brilliance and musical sensitivity. Her interpretation brings out the playful and inventive character of the Toccata, making it a fitting finale to this remarkable collection.
With a total duration of 1 hour and 11 minutes, "Wanda Landowska Bach" offers a comprehensive and immersive experience of Bach's keyboard works, as interpreted by one of the most influential harpsichordists of the 20th century. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the world of Bach, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.