Bach: Two-Part Inventions & Three-Part Sinfonias, BWV 772-801

Editorial Reviews
Amazon.com essential recording
Better known among pianists and the public as the Two and Three Part Inventions, these little gems were written by Bach as instruction in proper keyboard and compositional technique for his son, Wilhelm Friedemann. True, the music may be in only two or three parts, but what parts! And as any pianist will tell you, this is not easy music to play, since Bach demands absolute equality between the various music lines. It's the sort of thing Gould loved above all else, and he simply has a blast with these pieces, as will you. Vintage Bach, vintage Gould. --David Hurwitz

Bach: Two-Part Inventions & Three-Part Sinfonias, BWV 772-801, Music, Johann Sebastian Bach, Glenn Gould, Classical, Classical Composers, Classical Music, Invention for Keyboard, Keyboard, Orchestral & Symphonic, Sinfonia for Keyboard
Bach: Fantasia in C minor; Two-Part Inventions; Three-Part Inventions; Chromatic Fantasia & Fugue
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • The first of Hewitt's monumental Bach cycle
  • Sophisticated, understated Bach
 Bach: Fantasia in C minor; Two-Part Inventions; Three-Part Inventions; Chromatic Fantasia & Fugue

Manufacturer: Hyperion UK
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:
  1. Bach: The Toccatas
  2. Bach: French Suites / Angela Hewitt
  3. Bach: The Six Partitas / Angela Hewitt
  4. Bach: The Well-Tempered Clavier (book 1)
  5. Goldberg Variations

ASIN: B000002ZUY
Release Date: 1994-08-30

Tracks:

  1. Fantasia In C Minor, BWV906
  2. Fifteen Two-Part Inventions, BWV772-786: Invention 1 In C Major
  3. Fifteen Two-Part Inventions, BWV772-786: Invention 2 In C Minor
  4. Fifteen Two-Part Inventions, BWV772-786: Invention 3 In D Major
  5. Fifteen Two-Part Inventions, BWV772-786: Invention 4 In D Minor
  6. Fifteen Two-Part Inventions, BWV772-786: Invention 5 In E Flat Major
  7. Fifteen Two-Part Inventions, BWV772-786: Invention 6 In E Major
  8. Fifteen Two-Part Inventions, BWV772-786: Invention 7 In E Minor
  9. Fifteen Two-Part Inventions, BWV772-786: Invention 8 In F Major
  10. Fifteen Two-Part Inventions, BWV772-786: Invention 9 In F Minor
  11. Fifteen Two-Part Inventions, BWV772-786: Invention 10 In G Major
  12. Fifteen Two-Part Inventions, BWV772-786: Invention 11 In G Minor
  13. Fifteen Two-Part Inventions, BWV772-786: Invention 12 In A Major
  14. Fifteen Two-Part Inventions, BWV772-786: Invention 13 In A Minor
  15. Fifteen Two-Part Inventions, BWV772-786: Invention 14 In B Flat Major
  16. Fifteen Two-Part Inventions, BWV772-786: Invention 15 In B Minor
  17. Fifteen Three-Part Sinfonias (Inventions), BWV787-801: Sinfonia 1 In C Major
  18. Fifteen Three-Part Sinfonias (Inventions), BWV787-801: Sinfonia 2 In C Minor
  19. Fifteen Three-Part Sinfonias (Inventions), BWV787-801: Sinfonia 3 In D Major
  20. Fifteen Three-Part Sinfonias (Inventions), BWV787-801: Sinfonia 4 In D Minor
  21. Fifteen Three-Part Sinfonias (Inventions), BWV787-801: Sinfonia 5 In E Flat Major
  22. Fifteen Three-Part Sinfonias (Inventions), BWV787-801: Sinfonia 6 In E Major
  23. Fifteen Three-Part Sinfonias (Inventions), BWV787-801: Sinfonia 7 In E Minor
  24. Fifteen Three-Part Sinfonias (Inventions), BWV787-801: Sinfonia 8 In F Major
  25. Fifteen Three-Part Sinfonias (Inventions), BWV787-801: Sinfonia 9 In F Minor
  26. Fifteen Three-Part Sinfonias (Inventions), BWV787-801: Sinfonia 10 In G Major
  27. Fifteen Three-Part Sinfonias (Inventions), BWV787-801: Sinfonia 11 In G Minor
  28. Fifteen Three-Part Sinfonias (Inventions), BWV787-801: Sinfonia 12 In A Major
  29. Fifteen Three-Part Sinfonias (Inventions), BWV787-801: Sinfonia 13 In A Minor
  30. Fifteen Three-Part Sinfonias (Inventions), BWV787-801: Sinfonia 14 In B Flat Major
  31. Fifteen Three-Part Sinfonias (Inventions), BWV787-801: Sinfonia 15 In B Minor
  32. Chromatic Fantasia And Fugue In D Minor, BWV903: Fantasia
  33. Chromatic Fantasia And Fugue In D Minor, BWV903: Fugue

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars The first of Hewitt's monumental Bach cycle.......2006-03-25

In 1994 a mostly unknown 'Canadian' pianist signed with Hyperion Records to begin recording the whole of Bach's keyboard works. Eleven years - and some 14 discs later - the dream was complete, but the pianist was now well known and respected as one of the great Bach interpreters of her generation. This CD was the first of these recordings and the logical place to begin.

The program here ranges from the more simple of Bach's compositions (Two-Part Inventions) to some of the more trecherous, virtuostic masterpieces (the two fantasias). Written by Bach for his son and students around 1723, the Two-Part and Three-Part Inventions form the foundational know-how and skills of Bach's countrapuntal keyboard art. For centuries now these works have been essential for any piano student learning the "basics" of figuration, melodic line, smooth legato, clarity of two and three voices and so on. The Three-Part pieces are fairly advanced pieces possessing complex voicing and passagework. As such they are pre-requisite for learning the more complex preludes and fugues of "The Well-Tempered Clavier." Like the pieces in the WTC, both sets of Inventions show Bach as both a master educator and deft lyricist with their range of emotive qualities. There is delicacy, pensiveness, vivacity, virtuosity and sorrow expressed in these miniatures - all while building the foundational skills (like seamless legato w/o use of the pedal) necessary for performing the major piano repertoire. Pianists worldwide owe a world of gratitude for Johann Sebastian Bach for such foundational compositions which have been reverently played by many of the great composers who followed Bach.

I'm not sure if it is more Bach's multi-faceted compositions or Miss Hewitt's varied and expressive playing of them, but these so-called "piano excercises" sound anything but that. Likely, it is both of the above factors. It was in this first recording that Hewitt showed the music world her ever-so delicate, poised and artistic pianistic mannerisms, transforming these student pieces into delightful little concert performances in themselves. Her readings are worthy role models for students focusing on the long, clear, lyrical line that is essential to Bach's music as well as rewarding to admirers of Bach's art. Perhaps what Miss Hewitt most brings to this music is her tasteful, expressive nuances: a subtle rubato, an enticing dynamic shading and an artistic variety of tone summoned forth from her Steinway Grand. Such qualities create more of an unfolding story within each piece than showcasing mere "finger dexterity exercises." Gramophone recognized this more sensitive tunement to the musical aspects too and gave this CD a solid recommendation.

If the Inventions are the "main course" of this set, then the two virtuostic Fantasias which open and close the program are the delectable "appetizer" and "dessert" on the menu. Both show Bach as master of the extemporaneous "Style Fantasticus" that he most likely gleaned in his youth from his visit to hear the great organist, Buxtahude. Even in Bach's day supposedly, the great Chromatic Fanasia in D-minor was among his most popular piece as it is today. Both are exciting, daunting works played to perfection by Hewitt. As noted by Gramophone, "her readings of the fantasias are as eloquent and stimulating as any yet recorded by a harpsichordist." Also in support of the pianist is a fine recording ambiance by Hyperion that is hard to fault. Its rather ironic that this first CD of Hewitt's Bach recordings was the last of her entire discography I acquired. But even after hearing all her glorious performances of Bach's music - from the WTC and Goldbergs to the Toccatas, Suites and Keyboard Concertos - hearing these earliest and more straightforward pieces still brings great refreshment and satisfaction that is so common in Bach's music - and so common too in Angela Hewitt's masterful and colorful playing of them. Compositions - 4.5 stars, Peformance - 5 stars, Sound - 4.5 stars.

5 out of 5 stars Sophisticated, understated Bach.......2002-03-24

I have several recordings of the Inventions and Sinfonias, both on harpsichord (Gilbert, Koopman) and piano-- but this is easily the most satisfying. Less quirky than Gould's, Hewitt's performance is the furthest thing from flashy or idiosyncratic and really allows the clarity and contrapuntal elegance of Bach's keyboard writing to shine through. The result is the furthest thing from didacticism, always a risk with works that have such a central position in every pianist's early training. While eschewing every excess, Hewitt is also unafraid to take some liberaties-- hear, for example, the octave-doubling in the f-minor Sinfonia, easily a highlight of the set and of this performance in particular. Excellent fill-ups as well, the virtuosic c-minor Fantasia (though performed, as is almost always the case, without its fragmentary companion fugue) and the "Chromatic" Fantasie & Fugue. Unhesitatingly recommended.
Inventions & Sinfonias - 70th Anniversary Edition
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • FOR THE FAITHFUL
  • Expect excellence, Get genius
  • Performance versus Technology
  • benchmark for the initiated
  • This is just great music greatly interpreted
 Inventions & Sinfonias - 70th Anniversary Edition
Glenn Gould , and Bach
Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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  5. Partitas 4 5 & 6 - 70th Anniversary Edition

ASIN: B00006FI9S
Release Date: 2002-09-03

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars FOR THE FAITHFUL.......2006-08-20

To get the terminology clear - the 3-part Bach `Inventions' also go by the name of `Sinfonias'. There are 15 2-part and 15 3-part Inventions, and on this disc they are presented grouped in pairs by key, one of each type per pair.

The liner-note makes rather a song and dance of its own about the piano used for the recordings. It apparently suffered certain vicissitudes in the course of being transported around north America, and the first attempts at using it for recording these works had to be abandoned. With patience and perseverance they all got it back into an acceptable condition, and Gould himself contributes a commentary on the matter. He points out certain shortcomings in the sound of the instrument which have then been acutely perceived by others although not so much by myself even after being told about them. The only objective fault I find is a curious subdued `tick', and I can only say that after a lifetime of putting up with far worse on LP this minor blemish gives me no problem whatsoever. As often there is some background vocalising by the maestro himself. This is quiet, it is only intermittent, it is at least tuneful and I am accustomed to it from Gould, and again I simply could not care less. What I would say is that I like the sound of the instrument in general rather less than on some of Gould's other recordings, and that is a perception of my own and not something I have been told to look for, but once again it bothers me very little indeed.

The playing itself is exactly as one would expect it to be. The touch is non-legato, the precision of the fingerwork is phenomenal, little or no use is made of the pedals, there is comparatively little in the way of dynamic variation but there are enormous contrasts in the speeds adopted. This is Gould as we know him and either love him or do not love him. Myself, I find him a prodigy of the first magnitude, and in Bach he has never done any wrong from my point of view. You will not be amazed to be told that I recommend this disc wholeheartedly despite any minor reservations, and I have done what I can to make it clear what I consider recommendable and why.

5 out of 5 stars Expect excellence, Get genius.......2006-07-04

I have to smile at the constant complaints over Gould's many eccentricities, especially in this recording of Bach. If one puts on their memory cap, it is Bach who was the iconoclast of his day, the one who went to jail rather than conform, the one who established modern music with his advocacy of a "well-tempered" instrument. (One wonders what he would think of the incredible Symphonic organs that transformed composition and performance so drastically.)

I simply choose to ignore (or smile at) the occasional hum. When we deal with people we deal with their falacies. Good art is not sterile but (I prefer to think) important, creative and more than anything, human. I am not sure if Gould was not slyly trying to tick off the critics with some of his antics. After the Goldberg I was expecting big things from this album and I was not disappointed. Gould has an inimitable manner in which he seems to imbue each note with his entire being, with all the artistry that he possesses. He excells at structure and has the ability to rework the architecture of a piece (think of his Brahms), maintaining the form while emphasizing a phrase here, a pause there, bringing out an internal melody not apparent in other hands, pouring his soul into each note. He becomes his music as few artists are able to do.

The Inventions were sheer prefection and the 3-parts were even better. It goes without saying that the tone of the instrument was superb. Even after only a few seconds, one easily detects that Gould "touch" - the purity of tone, the clarity of note, the almost imagined hesitancy in the performance as if the artists were still searching for the best presentation. My grade: A

4 out of 5 stars Performance versus Technology.......2005-06-25

One can tolerate Glen Gould's grunting and groaning throughout, as his interpretation of the Bach inventions is outstanding. However, despite Sony's reputation the recording is flawed. The first track (Invention 1 in C major) has a "tic-tic-tic" for the first few bars that is unacceptable. Amazon very kindly replaced the disc free of all charges, including freight, but the replacement had the same flaw. I noticed that the disc played OK on my computer so I tried burning a copy. Lo, it was fine on my hi-fi gear so that solved the problem. But take care; why should we have to go to the trouble to make allowances to fix a technical fault when we are paying good money for a faultless one?

5 out of 5 stars benchmark for the initiated.......2005-06-05

I first heard the Bach Inventions/Sinfonias in a performance by Andras Schiff, which is a terrific album in its own way, should you happen upon it. But nothing could have prepared me for the shock that the Gould performance is. Yet time and repeated listening has made this my own personal favorite performance, as it is one of the most original musical utterances anyone could find anywhere.

For the uninitiated Gould listener, this album is eyebrow-raising. Some might even find it vulgar and off-putting. There's many obstacles in the way: the piano in this recording has serious malfunction, with a pronounced "hiccup" heard in the low-middle range. You'll also have to contend with Gould's creaking, noisy chair, which sometimes makes it sound as if this album were recorded in front of a large bonfire. Then there's the oft-mentioned Gould vocalise, which is more audible than ever here. The tempos are almost bi-polar in nature; either excruciatingly slow or hyper-fast, with not too much gray area in between. If that proves anything, it's that Gould had an almost superhuman technique which allowed him to play clean at extremely fast tempos, and with a profound emotional depth at slower tempos. No one can play as well at slow tempos as Gould does.

It has gotten to the point where I don't even have to make any attempt to block out these extraneous sounds. It's all part of what is, in summation, one of the most highly original and musical Bach albums ever issued.

5 out of 5 stars This is just great music greatly interpreted.......2005-01-22

I remember what film made me look into classical music and what made my life different. It was the film "A CLockwork Orange". I remember hearing all the Beethoven sections and saying "Hey classical music is cool!!" I found this album in a similar manner. Instead of hearing this music in a film I read about it in Thomas Harris' novel "The Silence of the Lambs". Oh yes the film references the aria from the Goldberg Variations but not only is Glenn Gould's name left out of the film but also another famous piece of work that Dr. Hannibal loved dearly. The two and three part invention by Glenn Gould. Hannibal Lecter asks for this very piece of music specifically while he is hiding away in a fancy hotel. Well I ran out and purchased this recording and all I have to say is that this is probably a better overall set of music that the Goldbergs as far as I'm concerned. There's a playfulness and longing here that Gould absolutely nails. And yes his piano in this recording is indeed defective. Some of the notes "stick" occasionally. I'll honestly tell you that this sticky and awkward piano sound SOMEHOW matches the music and is quite fun to listen to. Don't hesitate to buy this great album.
Bach: The Two and Three Part Inventions
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • Glen Gould Magical Performance
  • Brilliant
 Bach: The Two and Three Part Inventions

Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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  5. Partitas 4 5 & 6 - 70th Anniversary Edition

ASIN: B000F5FPZA
Release Date: 2006-06-06

Tracks:

  1. Invention No. 1 in C Major, BWV 772
  2. Sinfonia No. 1 in C Major, BWV 787
  3. Invention No. 2 in C minor, BWV 773
  4. Sinfonia No. 2 in C minor, BWV 788
  5. Invention No. 5 in E-flat Major, BVW 776
  6. Sinfonia No. 5 in E-flat Major, BWV 791
  7. Invention No. 14 in B-flat Major, BWV 785
  8. Sinfonia No. 14 in B-flat Major, BWV 800
  9. Invention No. 11 in G minor, BWV 782
  10. Sinfonia No. 11 in G minor, BWV 797
  11. Invention No. 10 in G Major, BVW 781
  12. Sinfonia No. 10 in G Major, BWV 796
  13. Invention No. 15 in B minor, BWV 786
  14. Sinfonia No. 15 in B minor, BWV 801
  15. Invention No. 7 in E minor, BWV 778
  16. Sinfonia No. 7 in E minor, BWV 793
  17. Invention No. 6 in E Major, BWV 777
  18. Sinfonia No. 6 in E Major, BWV 792
  19. Invention No. 13 in A minor, BWV 784
  20. Sinfonia No. 13 in A minor, BWV 799
  21. Invention No. 12 in A Major, BWV 783
  22. Sinfonia No. 12 in A Major, BWV 798
  23. Invention No. 3 in D Major, BWV 774
  24. Sinfonia No. 3 in D Major, BWV 789
  25. Invention No. 4 in D minor, BWV 775
  26. Sinfonia No. 4 in D minor, BWV 790
  27. Invention No. 8 in F Major, BWV 779
  28. Sinfonia No. 8 in F Major, BWV 794
  29. Invention No. 9 in F minor, BWV 780
  30. Sinfonia No. 9 in F minor, BWV 795
  31. Sinfonia No. 8 in F Major, BWV 794
  32. Sinfonia No. 15 in B Minor, BWV 801
  33. Sinfonia No. 9 in F Minor, BWV 795
  34. Unedited Studio Session Takes from June 6 & 9, 1955 from Inventions and Sinfonias, BWV 772-801; Sinfonia No. 8 in F Major, BWV 794
  35. Unedited Studio Session Takes from June 6 & 9, 1955 from Inventions and Sinfonias, BWV 772-801; Sinfonia No. 15 in B Minor, BWV 801
  36. Unedited Studio Session Takes from June 6 & 9, 1955 from Inventions and Sinfonias, BWV 772-801; Sinfonia No. 9 in F Minor, BWV 795

Amazon.com

This new reissue of Glenn Gould's recording of Bach's Inventions enshrines one of his finest ventures into the work of the composer with whom Gould is indelibly identified. In the hands of most other keyboard artists these miniatures sound like student exercises, but Gould gives each one an individual profile, finding more to savor. As always with Gould, you'll notice details and secondary accompaniments often buried in a welter of notes. But you'll also find charm, as in the Sixth Invention; introspection, as in several of the Sinfonias, and lightening finger work, each note precisely articulated. The net result is a vivacity and listenability not always associated with these pieces. Gould's reading of the Sinfonia No. 9, played with spare beauty, is, like so much else here, very special for the intimacy it evokes. Fillers include some previously unreleased Sinfonias and unedited takes from the recording sessions that illustrate the pianist's perfectionism. Perhaps best of all, the remastered sound is much better than that on previous issues of the disc. --Dan Davis

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Glen Gould Magical Performance.......2007-01-18

Gould shows these tradtional pieces played by every serious piano student can be interpretted more than one way. Some that are usually played very fast, he plays slowly, and some that are usually played fast, are played really fast - as though with super human ability. He uses legato on some that often are played stacatto, and others that are usually legato are played stacatto. An old recording that is still fresh and imaginative.

5 out of 5 stars Brilliant.......2006-06-24

Although the miniature Inventions and Sinfonias aren't the colossal technical masterworks of other Bach pieces like The Art of Fugue and the Goldberg Variations, they're just as emotional and thoughtful in their own way (you wouldn't criticize a sonnet for not having the narrative sweep of an epic poem). As always, Gould has great clarity and breathtaking virtuosity. But on this particular album, it has a musicality and charm that I sometimes find lacking in his other recordings; he seems to be having a great time performing these pieces. The extra material provides some interesting rethinking of three of the sinfonias, and the outtakes allow you to hear how Gould put them together

A great recording that is both emotionally and intellectually satisfying.
Bach: Two part Inventions/Three Part Inventions
Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
  • One of the best piano performances of the Inventions
  • Bach:Tow part Inventions/Three part Inventions
  • Average
  • What is all this fuss about Gould being better than Schiff?
  • A Somewhat "Romanticized" Bach Performance
 Bach: Two part Inventions/Three Part Inventions

Manufacturer: Decca
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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  5. Inventions & Sinfonias - 70th Anniversary Edition

ASIN: B0000041PL
Release Date: 1990-10-25

Tracks:

  1. Two-Part Inventions: No. 1 In C Major
  2. Two-Part Inventions: No. 2 In C Minor
  3. Two-Part Inventions: No. 3 In D Major
  4. Two-Part Inventions: No. 4 In D Minor
  5. Two-Part Inventions: No. 5 In E-Flat Major
  6. Two-Part Inventions: No. 6 In E Major
  7. Two-Part Inventions: No. 7 In E Minor
  8. Two-Part Inventions: No. 8 In F Major
  9. Two-Part Inventions: No. 9 In F Minor
  10. Two-Part Inventions: No. 10 In G Major
  11. Two-Part Inventions: No. 11 In G Minor
  12. Two-Part Inventions: No. 12 In A Major
  13. Two-Part Inventions: No. 13 In A Minor
  14. Two-Part Inventions: No. 14 In B-Flat Major
  15. Two-Part Inventions: No. 15 In B Minor
  16. Three-Part Inventions: No. 1 In C Major
  17. Three-Part Inventions: No. 2 In C Minor
  18. Three-Part Inventions: No. 3 In D Major
  19. Three-Part Inventions: No. 4 In D Minor
  20. Three-Part Inventions: No. 5 In E-Flat Major
  21. Three-Part Inventions: No. 6 In E Major
  22. Three-Part Inventions: No.7 In E Minor
  23. Three-Part Inventions: No. 8 In F Major
  24. Three-Part Inventions: No. 9 In F Minor
  25. Three-Part Inventions: No, 10 In G Major
  26. Three-Part Inventions: No. 11 In G Minor
  27. Three-Part Inventions: No. 12 In A Major
  28. Three-Part Inventions: No. 13 In A Minor
  29. Three-Part Inventions: No. 14 In B-Flat Major
  30. Three-Part Inventions: No. 15 In B Minor

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars One of the best piano performances of the Inventions.......2007-04-12

I can't believe the negative reviews about Schiff's performance of this work.

This is a perfect performance, perfect in every respect: tempi, ornaments, dynamics, technique etc. and of course the overall feeling that this performance exhudes.

Highly recommended.

5 out of 5 stars Bach:Tow part Inventions/Three part Inventions.......2007-03-12

The CD arrived the same week I ordered it. I am very pleased witht this recording.

3 out of 5 stars Average .......2005-07-03

Writting reviews about lesser talented pianists who are now building their house in the wake of Gould always seems to be the perfect occasion to say astoundingly stupid things about Gould - the wolf hunted down by dogs scarving to turn him into a dog.
Schiff, as with other Bach works he recorded up to now (2005), offers an average, good, gentle but non remarquable nor memorable performance here, with dubious legatos, superfluous qualm and unjustified sentimentality.
May cause deception and drowsiness.

5 out of 5 stars What is all this fuss about Gould being better than Schiff?.......2001-10-28

Schiff plays Bach extremely well with a beautiful tone. I personally think that Schiff plays better than Gould. An eccentric person, Gould mainly does what he wants. In some pieces, he plays them extroadinarily, but most pieces, they are a mess of complete rushing and absolutely no dynamics. In almost every song he plays, Schiff shows a perfection that no one else could have. I enjoy listening to him and learn a lot.

3 out of 5 stars A Somewhat "Romanticized" Bach Performance.......2000-06-13

The first problem I have with this recording is the performer's extremely free additions of ornaments that are not in Bach's scores. While these may be somewhat justifiable as common practice in Baroque period music, they are rather unlikely considering the pedagogical nature of the composer's original intentions for these works. Schiff's use of outright RUBATO in places absolutely kills the forward-moving rhythms that one longs to hear in these pieces. Schiff's fabulous technique is evident in every piece, but his phrasing is almost as though he were playing Brahms, rather than Bach. Purists who are looking for an accurate performance from a historical perspective will NOT enjoy this CD. But again, the pianist's technical prowess is quite praiseworthy, despite the CD's lack of historical style considerations.
J.S. Bach: Inventions; Sinfonias; Little Preludes
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Stunning - buy it while you can !
  • A delightful listen
  • Solid
  • odd
  • I have already worn the plastic nubs off the jewel case
 J.S. Bach: Inventions; Sinfonias; Little Preludes
Johann Sebastian Bach , and Richard Troeger (performer)
Manufacturer: Lyrichord Discs Inc.
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:
  1. J.S. Bach: The Seven Toccatas
  2. Bach: Six Partitas / Richard Troeger
  3. Art of Fugue/Violin Transcriptions/Fantasias (Bach on Clavichord Vol. 4)
  4. Playing Bach on the Keyboard: A Practical Guide
  5. Bach: Inventions and Sinfonias (Complete)

ASIN: B00004Y6MJ
Release Date: 2000-10-24

Tracks:

  1. Two-Part Invention No.1 in C, BWV772
  2. Two-Part Invention No.2 in c, BWV773
  3. Two-Part Invention No.3 in D, BWV774
  4. Two-Part Invention No.4 in d, BWV775
  5. Two-Part Invention No.5 in E flat, BWV776
  6. Two-Part Invention No.6 in E, BWV777
  7. Two-Part Invention No.7 in e, BWV778
  8. Two-Part Invention No.8 in F, BWV779
  9. Two-Part Invention No.9 in f, BWV780
  10. Two-Part Invention No.10 in G, BWV781
  11. Two-Part Invention No.11 in g, BWV782
  12. Two-Part Invention No.12 in A, BWV783
  13. Two-Part Invention No.13 in a, BWV784
  14. Two-Part Invention No.14 in B flat, BWV785
  15. Two-Part Invention No.15 in b, BWV786
  16. Little Prld No.1 in C, BWV924
  17. Little Prld No.2 in C, BWV939
  18. Little Prld No.3 in c, BWV999
  19. Little Prld No.4 in D, BWV925
  20. Little Prld No.5 in d, BWV926
  21. Little Prld No.6 in D, BWV940
  22. Little Prld No.7 in e, BWV941
  23. Little Prld No.8 in F, BWV927
  24. Little Prld No.9 in F, BWV928
  25. Menuet & Trio (Prld No.10, BWV929)
  26. Little Prld No.11 in g, BWV930
  27. Little Prld No.12 in a, BWV942
  28. Sinf No.1 in C, BWV787
  29. Sinf No.2 in c, BWV788
  30. Sinf No.3 in D, BWV789
  31. Sinf No.4 in d, BWV790
  32. Sinf No.5 in E flat, BWV791
  33. Sinf No.6 in E, BWV792
  34. Sinf No.7 in e, BWV793
  35. Sinf No.8 in F, BWV794
  36. Sinf No.9 in f, BWV795
  37. Sinf No.10 in G, BWV796
  38. Sinf No.11 in g, BWV797
  39. Sinf No.12 in A, BWV798
  40. Sinf No.13 in a, BWV799
  41. Sinf No.14 in B flat, BWV800
  42. Sinf No.15 in b, BWV801
  43. Little Prld No.1 in C, BWV933
  44. Little Prld No.2 in c, BWV934
  45. Little Prld No.3 in d, BWV935
  46. Little Prld No.4 in D, BWV936
  47. Little Prld No.5 in E, BWV937
  48. Little Prld No.6 in e, BWV938

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Stunning - buy it while you can !.......2006-02-13

I don't have much to say. The subtle beauty of this recording (and others by Troeger) is self-evident. Five stars is not enough.

5 out of 5 stars A delightful listen.......2003-03-24

This is the best recording of these works I have ever heard. The sound quality is outstanding, the playing is superb. I was initially reluctant to purchase this cd (not being familiar with Troeger and hesitant about the sound quality of a clavichord recording). I am fortunate that I took a chance and bought it as this is the best recording of the two and three part inventions and preludes. One reviewer reported that the tempo was too fast for his liking, although I disagree. I don't give five stars often, but this recording deserves it.

5 out of 5 stars Solid.......2001-03-26

Troeger has delivered on all three clavichord recordings of Bach thus far. This particular volume contains "less sophisticated" works by Bach, more didactic pieces for his sons (and everyone else today) to learn fingering, composition, and sensitivity. In this last case, Troeger sounds like a master on this quiet instrument, and he gives us an intimate sense of the music (these pieces could very likely have been played by Bach's sons in this manner at home, on the clavichord). A delightful recording in many respects.

3 out of 5 stars odd.......2001-02-12

Poor ole Bach. Sax choirs, Swingle singers. Synths and Bongos.. well at least the clavichord predates the light bulb.

Don't get me wrong this is not a wretched CD. I even play it ... sometimes. It may not be `whatever' but the artiste Maybe he had a hot date or the Celtic Gaol Squad was after him something but he just plays the music too fast for me. The playing sounds rushed [which one doesn't `pick up' on the samples]. I wouldn't want to see a comparison of this and, say, Glen Gould playing Bach on the piano in terms of tempi.

This is a nice `specimen' CD IF you already own a CD of these works.

5 out of 5 stars I have already worn the plastic nubs off the jewel case.......2001-02-03

Like another recent Lyrichord recording (the Trio Sonatas, played on twin gut-stringed lautenwercke), this wonderful package is beautiful and revelatory. The individual lines of each work are clearly audible, and while they are simpler overall than some of Bach's more extended works, these pieces are very, very sweet, melodic and enjoyable. Sorry for all the vague words. The performance is full of energy, occasionally making this listener, anyway, want to jump up and down. I'll be checking out *all* the releases by Richard Troeger: this is the sort of music to listen to when Bach is all you can possibly stand. It will make you feel good about humanity, if you don't already.

Understand, this comes from a lover of Bach's music who has *no* formal training in music theory, history or performance - which could be a caveat or not, depending on your opinions.
Bach: Inventions and Sinfonias (Complete)
Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
  • Beautifully Played
  • Crisp and Clean Bach
  • Fresh, but fails to move
  • Straightforward playing
 Bach: Inventions and Sinfonias (Complete)

Manufacturer: Naxos
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:
  1. Bach: Piano Works
  2. J. S. Bach: Favourite Piano Works
  3. J.S. Bach: Inventions; Sinfonias; Little Preludes
  4. Keyboard Music
  5. Bach: Two part Inventions/Three Part Inventions

ASIN: B0000013W7
Release Date: 1994-02-15

Tracks:

  1. Inventions: No. 1 In C Major, BWV 772
  2. Inventions: No. 2 In C Minor, BWV 773
  3. Inventions: No. 3 In D Major, BWV 774
  4. Inventions: No. 4 In D Minor, BWV 775
  5. Inventions: No. 5 In E Flat Major, BWV 776
  6. Inventions: No. 6 In E Major, BWV 777
  7. Inventions: No. 7 In E Minor, BWV 778
  8. Inventions: No. 8 In F Major, BWV 779
  9. Inventions: No. 9 In F Minor, BWV 780
  10. Inventions: No. 10 In G Major, BWV 781
  11. Inventions: No. 11 In G Minor, BWV 782
  12. Inventions: No. 12 In A Major, BWV 783
  13. Inventions: No. 13 In A Minor, BWV 784
  14. Inventions: No. 14 In B Flat Major, BWV 785
  15. Inventions: No. 15 In B Minor, BWV 786
  16. Sinfonias: No. 15 In B Minor, BWV 786
  17. Sinfonias: No. 2 In C Minor, BWV 788
  18. Sinfonias: No. 3 In D Major, BWV 789
  19. Sinfonias: No. 4 In D Minor, BWV 791
  20. Sinfonias: No. 5 In E Flat Major, BWV 791
  21. Sinfonias: No. 5 In E Flat Major, BWV 791
  22. Sinfonias: No. 7 In E Minor, BWV 793
  23. Sinfonias: No. 8 In F Major, BWV 794
  24. Sinfonias: No. 9 In F Minor, BWV 795
  25. Sinfonias: No. In G Major, BWV 796
  26. Sinfonias: No. 11 In G Minor, BWV 797
  27. Sinfonias: No. 12 In A Major, BWV 798
  28. Sinfonias: No. 13 In A Minor, BWV 799
  29. Sinfonias: No. 14 In B Flat Major, BWV 800
  30. Sinfonias: No. 15 In B Minor, BWV 801
  31. Fragments Of Anna Magdalena's Notebook: Minuet In G Major, BWV Anh. 114
  32. Fragments Of Anna Magdalena's Notebook: Minuet In G Minor, BWV Anh. 115
  33. Fragments Of Anna Magdalena's Notebook: Minuet In G Major, BWV Anh. 116
  34. Fragments Of Anna Magdalena's Notebook: Polonaise In G Minor, BWV Anh. 119
  35. Fragments Of Anna Magdalena's Notebook: March In D Major, BWV Anh. 122
  36. Fragments Of Anna Magdalena's Notebook: Polonaise In G Minor, BWV Anh. 125
  37. Fragments Of Anna Magdalena's Notebook: Musette In D Major, BWV Anh. 126
  38. Fragments Of Anna Magdalena's Notebook: Minuet In D Minor, BWV Anh. 132

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Beautifully Played .......2007-01-18

A Bonus is several pieces from Mary Magdelina's famous Notebook (Bach's Second Wife's book of beginning pieces of which most piano students have played for centuries) which the artist plays with great command. It is rare to hear great pianists play these kind of supposedly simplistic pieces that Bach evidently composed for his several genius sons and other children of which he had 20!

4 out of 5 stars Crisp and Clean Bach.......2006-04-27

Sebestyen's rendering of Bach is very clean and precise, something which is very important in contrapuntal compositions. However, I must level one critique against the performance on this CD. It seems a bit too "laid-back" and carefree at times. In my humble opinion, I wish he would have a bit more passion and nuance in dynamics and punctuation. Nevertheless, his crisp style does do much to show the beauty of Bach's work. A further positive note is the inclusion of Minuet in G Minor, BWV Anh. 115, a simple, yet rich, Minuet that I have had some difficulty finding next to its Major counterpart. Overall, at its low price, I must thoroughly suggest this collection because it is executed well, albeit a bit dispassionate.

3 out of 5 stars Fresh, but fails to move.......1999-11-24

Janos has an effortless way of playing, although he misses out on the more deliacte nuances found in other recordings. More interesting recordings are Glenn Gould (intoxicating) or Andras Schiff (featherlight and bouncy).

5 out of 5 stars Straightforward playing.......1999-04-04

Janos Sebestyen plays these study pieces clearly, crisply, and cleanly. The tempi are nicely set, and his delicate use of rhythms sounds as though he is playing on the harpsichord. Included on this album are a few selections from the notebook Bach made for his second wife Anna Magdalena, including that perennially charming Minuet in G, Anh. 114.
Bach: Inventions & Sinfonias
Average customer rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars
  • This is a great CD.
  • Gorgeous sound and musicianship
  • I don't think so.
  • Contrary to the previous review
  • Serkin - why would anyone buy this one?
 Bach: Inventions & Sinfonias

Manufacturer: RCA
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:
  1. Peter Serkin: Beethoven Sonatas
  2. Inventions & Sinfonias - 70th Anniversary Edition
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  5. Shostakovich: Cello Concerto No1, Op107; Violin Concerto No1 (revised), Op99

ASIN: B000003G5E
Release Date: 1997-02-11

Tracks:

  1. 15 Inventions, BWV 772-786: Invention No. 1In C Major, BWV 772
  2. 15 Inventions, BWV 772-786: Invention No. 2 In C Minor, BWV 773
  3. 15 Inventions, BWV 772-786: Invention No. 3 In D Major, BWV 774
  4. 15 Inventions, BWV 772-786: Invention No. 4 In D minor, BWV 775
  5. 15 Inventions, BWV 772-786: Invention No. 5 In E-Flat Major, BWV 776
  6. 15 Inventions, BWV 772-786: Invention No. 6 In E Major, BWV 777
  7. 15 Inventions, BWV 772-786: Invention No. 7 In E Minor, BWV 778
  8. 15 Inventions, BWV 772-786: Invention No. 8 In F Major, BWV 779
  9. 15 Inventions, BWV 772-786: Invention No. 9 In F Minor, BWV 780
  10. 15 Inventions, BWV 772-786: Invention No. 10 In G Major, BWV 781
  11. 15 Inventions, BWV 772-786: Invention No. 11 In G Minor, BWV 782
  12. 15 Inventions, BWV 772-786: Invention No. 12 In A Major, BWV 783
  13. 15 Inventions, BWV 772-786: Invention No. 13 In A Minor, BWV 784
  14. 15 Inventions, BWV 772-786: Invention No. 14 In B-Flat Major, BWV 785
  15. 15 Inventions, BWV 772-786: Invention No. 15, In B Minor, BWV 786
  16. 15 Sinfonias, BWV 787-801: Sinfonia No. 1In C Major, BWV 787
  17. 15 Sinfonias, BWV 787-801: Sinfonia No. 2 In C Minor, BWV 788
  18. 15 Sinfonias, BWV 787-801: Sinfonia No. 3 In D Major, BWV 789
  19. 15 Sinfonias, BWV 787-801: Sinfonia No. 4 In D Minor, BWV 790
  20. 15 Sinfonias, BWV 787-801: Sinfonia No. 5 In E-Flat Major, BWV 791
  21. 15 Sinfonias, BWV 787-801: Sinfonia No. 6 In E Major, BWV 792
  22. 15 Sinfonias, BWV 787-801: Sinfonia No. 7 In E Minor, BWV 793
  23. 15 Sinfonias, BWV 787-801: Sinfonia No. 8 In F Major, BWV 794
  24. 15 Sinfonias, BWV 787-801: Sinfonia No. 9 In F Minor, BWV 795
  25. 15 Sinfonias, BWV 787-801: Sinfonia No. 10 In G Major, BWV 796
  26. 15 Sinfonias, BWV 787-801: Sinfonia No. 11 In G Minor, BWV 797
  27. 15 Sinfonias, BWV 787-801: Sinfonia No. 12 In A Major, BWV 798
  28. 15 Sinfonias, BWV 787-801: Sinfonia No. 13 In A Minor, BWV 799
  29. 15 Sinfonias, BWV 787-801: Sinfonia No. 14 In B-Flat Major, BWV 800
  30. 15 Sinfonias, BWV 787-801: Sinfonia No. 15 In B Minor, BWV 801
  31. 4 Duets, BWV 802-805: Duet No. 1 In E Minor, BWV 802
  32. 4 Duets, BWV 802-805: Duet No. 2 In F Major, BWV 803
  33. 4 Duets, BWV 802-805: Duet No. 3 In G Major, BWV 804
  34. 4 Duets, BWV 802-805: Duet No. 4 In A Minor, BWV 805

Amazon.com

If Peter Serkin's four Goldberg Variations recordings reveal a lifelong affinity for Bach on the concert grand, one suspects his approach to the Inventions has similarly been well-tempered and seasoned over the years. Compared to Glenn Gould's rhythmic vigor and Andras Schiff's fleeter, more spontaneously conceived readings, Serkin's eloquent understatement may appear impersonal and even bland. Repeated hearings, however, uncover felicities of voice leading and dynamic terracing, as well pianist's warm, singing legato achieved purely by hand balance and fingering, with no aid from the pedal. While the virtues of Gould and Schiff should not be discounted, Serkin sweetens the ante, adding on the four Duets from the Clavierubung. Sonics are first class. --Jed Distler

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars This is a great CD........2001-07-23

After years of hacking through these pieces on the piano, and then a few more years studying them in college classes...I guess I developed a fondness for them. So, I wanted to get a recording that summed up why I loved them so much. Don't be angry, but the Gould just didn't do it for me. I was very impressed with Serkin's performances of Takemitsu and Messiaen, so I was glad to find this cd. It's great...I'd say perfect (although I'm not a Bach scholar...am I?). The tempos are great. There is this subtlety to it...the notes just kind of "dance" out of the speakers and into your ears. Nice.

5 out of 5 stars Gorgeous sound and musicianship.......2001-07-05

The extreme disparity of the reviews here is probably indication enough that this is a recording worth buying and studying. Serkin is consistently one of the most subtle and insightful musicians active today, and Bach is the perfect showcase for his talents. Listeners seeking a cheap thrill will be disappointed with this disc; the more thoughtful will discover a bottomless well of seamless phrasing, singing tone in the cello register, and voicing of a subtlety that is nearly impossible to achieve.

There is a pervasive calm in Serkin's playing that can be mistaken for apathy; however, it is passionate in the sense that a Palestrina motet, for example, is passionate. Gould's more zippy reading actually feels more emotionally detached. As for Schiff, well, sorry, he's the definition of bland.

To the reviewer who would bash Peter with the spectre of his famous father -- shame on you! Just call him, say, Peter Johnson, and give it another listen. They are very different artists and personalities, but both brilliant.

Kudos to the engineering team on this disc. The recorded sound is mindblowingly gorgeous. This Manhattan studio sounds more like St.John the Divine.

1 out of 5 stars I don't think so........2001-06-07

Comparing Peter Serkin to Glenn Gould is like comparing your high school baseball team to the New York Yankees. They're in completely different leagues.

5 out of 5 stars Contrary to the previous review.......2001-06-01

After seeing this trashed in the previous review I got curious and bought it. Personally I loved the Goldberg Variations Serkin put out a few years ago. I also have several of Gould's Bach recordings and I have the Bach Preludes by Schiff which I like pretty well, although I find Schiff somewhat unremarkable. I can listen to them all - however when I listen to Serkin's I feel like I'm listening to Bach. When I listen to Glenn Gould, hey I am listening to Glenn Gould (with maybe a little Bach thrown in)! His (Gould's) brilliant technique gets in the way of the feeling of the music somehow. I guess it depends on whether you prefer Glenn Gould or Bach. I prefer Bach. I think Serkin gets a raw deal because his father was a famous pianist. Listen to the way he characterizes the lower parts in a different type of "voice" than the higher parts. A subtle technique that is very hard to master, and I don't hear that in Gould. This technique of Serkin's illustrates the use of counterpoint which is the cornerstone of Bach's musical universe. This is a great album if you like Bach on the piano.

1 out of 5 stars Serkin - why would anyone buy this one?.......1999-04-17

Serkin falls short of both vigor and elegance and presents a bland and bloodless Bach. I would advice you to avoid young Peter (papa Rudolf is in another league, sorry), and instead listen to Glenn Gould or Andras Schiff, depending on your preferences. Gould is the master virtuoso (and eccentric), and Schiff the elegant baroquist.

Perhaps there is a sutleness in Peter's playing, but I just can't seem to find it. One star.
J.S. Bach: Inventions and Sinfonias (Complete)
Average customer rating: 3 out of 5 stars
  • Superb
  • Makes me dizzy
  • Rubsam -- forever!
  • Rübsam
  • Horrifying
 J.S. Bach: Inventions and Sinfonias (Complete)

Manufacturer: Naxos
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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InventionsInventions | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
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Similar Items:
  1. J.S. Bach: Inventions; Sinfonias; Little Preludes

ASIN: B000001419
Release Date: 1995-07-18

Tracks:

  1. No. 1, BWV 772 (1st Version)
  2. No. 1, BWV 772 (2nd Version)
  3. No. 2, BWV 773
  4. No. 3, BWV 774
  5. No. 4, BWV 775
  6. No. 5, BWV 776
  7. No. 6, BWV 777
  8. No. 7, BWV 778
  9. No. 8, BWV 779
  10. No. 9, BWV 780
  11. No. 10, BWV 781
  12. No. 11, BWV 782
  13. No. 12, BWV 783
  14. No. 13, BWV 784
  15. No. 14, BWV 785
  16. No. 15, BWV 786
  17. No. 1, BWV 787
  18. No. 2, BWV 788
  19. No. 3, BWV 788
  20. No. 4, BWV 790
  21. No. 5, BWV 791
  22. No. 6, BWV 792
  23. No. 7, BWV 793
  24. No. 8, BWV 794
  25. No. 9, BWV 795
  26. No. 10, BWV 796
  27. No. 11, BWV 797
  28. No. 12, BWV 798
  29. No. 13, BWV 799
  30. No. 14, BWV 800
  31. No. 15, BWV 801

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Superb.......2007-06-21

So much more alive and interesting than the standard fare we get in many recordings today. Strong intuition drives the performance and moves both performer and listener to look beyond the usual frontiers.

1 out of 5 stars Makes me dizzy.......2006-11-25

Now don't get me wrong, I am not against rubato in Baroque music and am not a purist who wants the Inventions played in a "correct", textbook fashion, but Rubsam really murders these pieces. Ok, use some rubato in the slower ones, but in #8? This is the liveliest of the set and to hear rubato and beats stretched out in every measure makes me seasick. It's not just in #8, but all of them! Rubsam has a nice sound, but also a terrible rubato habit that becomes so predictable that it's a farce. Also, #15 is so slow it's ridiculous.

5 out of 5 stars Rubsam -- forever!.......2005-09-29

All criticists are not true! Rubsam never plays bad (and of course this set of sinfonias). And he never plays boring like mentioned and advertised Gould. This recording and others of Bach's clavier works made by Naxos are probably most interesting and unusual in our days! Especially to my mind it's because of the instrument choice. The recording will be intriguing for everybody, who likes really unique performance art, and sure not for "scientists" and "mathematicians" from music. Rubsam's recordings of each composer are always discovery. They open new ways for understanding of known-for-a-long-time works. And from this point of view Rubsam's play is similar to Koopman's one.

1 out of 5 stars Rübsam.......2004-11-12

I borrowed a copy of this recording from my university's library so that I could listen to an invention (Two-Part, #15) as I analyzed it for my Counterpoint course. I am not a pianist, but as soon as I hit 'play' I could tell that the recording was bad.

Counterpoint literally means 'point against point.' When a pianist displaces points so that they are not against each other, as Rübsam blatantly does in #15, then counterpoint vanishes, or at the very least becomes obscured. Rübsam's ridiculous obsession for rubato, which I won't harp on given that most others have rightfully done so, places no regard on period and style. I found that the displaced beats and constant give and take of the interpretation obscured not only the counterpoint but also the overall form of the invention.

The class period after I listened to this awful recording, my professor played a Glen Gould recording, and suddenly everything about the sections of the inventions made sense. Buy Glen Gould. It won't be a waste of your money.

1 out of 5 stars Horrifying.......2004-06-17

This CD is perhaps the most appalling one I've purchased. By no means should you consider buying this. I bought it because it was the first cheap and complete set of two-part inventions I found. Go for Glenn Gould and you won't go wrong, trust me.

The only fathomable way Rubsam could have some dignity in recording such an atrocious set is if he was sight-reading these pieces. That is what it sounds like. Specifically, he plays No. 13 (A Minor) about one minute too slow, and in a one-minute piece . . .

To say it is a Romantic interpretation would be a disgrace to the Romantic Period, but. Rubsam uses rubato EXCESSIVELY. As in, every measure. Totally unacceptable. I urge you to buy Glenn Gould, not this.
Tomita Live In New York
Average customer rating: Not rated
    		Tomita Live In New York

    Manufacturer: RCA
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    ASIN: B000002WBJ
    Release Date: 1990-10-25
    Bach: The Two and Three Part Inventions (Inventions & Sinfonias)
    Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
    • Bach: The Two and Three Part Inventions (Inventions & Sinfonias)
    • that's how it's supposed to be
    • Educatioinal Experience
    		 Bach: The Two and Three Part Inventions (Inventions & Sinfonias)

    Manufacturer: Sony
    ProductGroup: Music
    Binding: Audio CD

    All Works by J.S. BachAll Works by J.S. Bach | Bach, Johann Sebastian | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
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    Similar Items:
    1. Bach: Two part Inventions/Three Part Inventions
    2. English Suites 4 5 & 6 - 70th Anniversary Edition
    3. The Glenn Gould Edition - Bach: The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book II
    4. French Suites - 70th Anniversary Edition
    5. English Suites 1 2 & 3 - 70th Anniversary Edition

    ASIN: B0001ENYEE
    Release Date: 2004-02-24

    Tracks:

    1. Invention No.1 In C Major, BWV 772
    2. Sinfonia No.1 In C Major, BWV 787
    3. Invention No.2 In C Minor, BWV 773
    4. Sinfonia No.2 In C Minor, BWV 788
    5. Invention No.5 In E-Flat Major, BWV 776
    6. Sinfonia No.5 In E-Flat Major, BWV 791
    7. Invention No.14 In B-Flat Major, BWV 785
    8. Sinfonia No.14 In B-Flat Major, BWV 800
    9. Invention No.11 In G Minor, BWV 782
    10. Sinfonia No.11 In G Minor, BWV 797
    11. Invention No.10 In G Major, BWV 781
    12. Sinfonia No.10 In G Major, BWV 781
    13. Invention No.15 In B Minor, BWV 786
    14. Sinfonia No.15 In B Minor, BWV 801
    15. Invention No.7 In E Minor, BWV 778
    16. Sinfonia No.7 In E Minor, BWV 793
    17. Invention No.6 In E Major, BWV 777
    18. Sinfonia No.6 In E Major, BWV 792
    19. Invention No.13 In A Minor, BWV 784
    20. Sinfonia No.13 In A Minor, BWV 799
    21. Invention No.12 In A Major, BWV 783
    22. Sinfonia No.12 In A Major, BWV 798
    23. Invention No.3 In D Major, BWV 774
    24. Sinfonia No.3 In D Major, BWV 789
    25. Invention No.4 In D Minor, BWV 775
    26. Sinfonia No.4 In D Minor, BWV 790
    27. Invention No.8 In F Major, BWV 779
    28. Sinfonia No.8 In F Major, BWV 794
    29. Invention No.9 In F Minor, BWV 780
    30. Sinfonia No.9 In F Minor, BWV 795
    31. I. Prelude
    32. II. Allemande
    33. III. Courante I
    34. IV. Courante II
    35. V. Double I
    36. VI. Double II
    37. VII. Sarabande
    38. VIII. Boouree I
    39. IX. Bouree II (With Da Capo I)
    40. X. Gigue

    Customer Reviews:

    5 out of 5 stars Bach: The Two and Three Part Inventions (Inventions & Sinfonias).......2007-07-22

    Bach: The Two and Three Part Inventions (Inventions & Sinfonias)~ Johann Sebastian Bach is a stupendous recordings with the amazing and eccentric Glenn Gould. Bach is one my favorite composers of all time and he sure shows his brilliance with these amazing compositions. Excellent music when studying or relaxing and one can never tire of this amazing and timeless recording. 5 well deserved stars indeed.

    5 out of 5 stars that's how it's supposed to be.......2006-11-13

    This is an excellent showcase of Gould's talent and his true passion, playing the works of Bach. One reviewer commented on the pace of the pieces, that was Gould's claim to fame. The level of expertise that Gould could play a Bach piece at break-neck speed was what made him famous. This is an excellent disk that any Gould fan should own!

    3 out of 5 stars Educatioinal Experience.......2006-07-11

    I was somewhat disappointed with this purchase. Many of the pieces played were at different speed that I had come to learn them. Some pieces were so fast, I thought that it was unreal, others were slower than I anticipated. I realized that music is open to personal interpretation, but I feel that about half of the pieces were off tempo. Admittedly, I am not a Bach expert, or an Elliot Gould fan, I feel that this purchase was almost not worth the time and effort I spent looking for it.

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