J.S. Bach: The Great Organ Works

Editorial Reviews
Amazon.com
Bargain basement Bach--here's a really fine collection of the some of the most popular organ pieces at a rock-bottom price. You get the Phantom of the Opera Toccata and Fugue in D minor, the Passacaglia and Fugue, the St. Anne Prelude and Fugue, the Toccata, Adagio and Fugue, and if that's not enough, two lovely chorale preludes. Wolfgang Rubsam has previously recorded all of this music for Philips, and his Bach pedigree is second to none. As a sample of his ongoing complete edition, or as a stand-alone introduction to the greatest organ music in the history of mankind, this disc fits the bill perfectly. --David Hurwitz

Tracks:

Toccata
Fuga
Jesu, Joy Of Man's Desiring
Herzlich Tut Mich Verlangen
Prelude
Lament
Scherzo
Gavotte And Musette
Andante Mistico
Finale
Air On A G String
Sheep May Safely Graze
Fantasia
Fuga
Ich Ruf' Zu Dir, Herr Jesu Christ
Bist Du Bei Mir?
A Mighty Fortress Is Our God

Average customer rating:

The royal music!

Organ Works Complete
Johann Sebastian Bach , and Christopher Herrick
Manufacturer: Hyperion UK
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

Classical | Imports | Stores | Music
ASIN: B00006L3WC
Release Date: 2002-11-12

Customer Reviews:

The royal music!.......2003-11-05

Organ king's music performed by a prominent organist at his best on ones of the best organs in the world!

Average customer rating:

Excellent introduction to the works of JS Bach
Excellent recording for the price

J.S. Bach: The Great Organ Works

Manufacturer: Naxos
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Cantatas | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

4-for-3 Classical | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music

4-for-3 All Music | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music
Similar Items:

Bach: Schübler Chorales, BWV 645-650
Bach: Organ Chorales; Preludes; Fugues
Bach: Das Orgelbüchlein (The Little Organ Book), Vol. 1
Bach: Great Organ Works
J.S. Bach: Kirnberger Chorales Vol. 1 and other organ works

ASIN: B0000014AO
Release Date: 1996-11-19

Tracks:

Toccata And Fugue In D Minor, BWV 565: Toccata
Toccata And Fugue In D Minor, BWV 565: Fugue
Fugue In G Minor, BWV 578
Prelude And Fugue In E Flat Major, BWV 552: Prelude
Prelude And Fugue In E Flat Major, BWV 552: Fugue
Jesu bleibet meine Freude, BWV 147
Toccata, Adagio And Fugue In C Major, BWV 564: Toccata
Toccata, Adagio And Fugue In C Major, BWV 564: Adagio
Toccata, Adagio And Fugue In C Major, BWV 564: Fugue
Ich Ruf' Zu Dir, Herr Jesu Christ, BWV 639
Passacaglia And Fugue In C Minor, BWV 582: Passacaglia
Passacaglia And Fugue In C Minor, BWV 582: Fugue

Amazon.com

Bargain basement Bach--here's a really fine collection of the some of the most popular organ pieces at a rock-bottom price. You get the Phantom of the Opera Toccata and Fugue in D minor, the Passacaglia and Fugue, the St. Anne Prelude and Fugue, the Toccata, Adagio and Fugue, and if that's not enough, two lovely chorale preludes. Wolfgang Rubsam has previously recorded all of this music for Philips, and his Bach pedigree is second to none. As a sample of his ongoing complete edition, or as a stand-alone introduction to the greatest organ music in the history of mankind, this disc fits the bill perfectly. --David Hurwitz

Customer Reviews:

Excellent introduction to the works of JS Bach.......2006-09-03

Around 1995, I was introduced to the Naxos label. Being an organist as well as a fan of organ music, I snapped up the CDs of Wolfgang Ruebsam. At the then low price of $5.99, it looked like a bargain.

I quickly regretted my purchase then, though I do not now. At the time, I thoroughly detested all of Mr Ruebsam's tempo fluctuations. However, I've started to listen to his performances again and found that I really do like them. Getting past his use of rubato may be hard for some listeners, but Mr Ruebsam is a brilliant interpreter worth spending some time with. His registrations are brilliant without being unduly harsh. Some recordings of Baroque organ music emphasise high, piercing, mutations so much that it is quite annoying and sometimes quite unnerving. The recorded sound is excellent. Ruebsam's performance of the Toccata, Adagio, and Fugue is brilliant. His performance of the Passacaglia and Fugue in C Minor is deeply moving.

As I mentioned before, some listeners may find Mr Ruebsam's tempo fluctuations really annoying. But if one gets past all that, one is exposed to one of the truly great artists of our time. His interpretations are thoughtful and well executed. Wolfgang Ruebsam's Bach is worth spending time with. This is an excellent introduction to his cycle.

Excellent recording for the price.......2000-06-15

I'm not a huge fan of solo organ, but after hearing Ich Ruf' Zu Dir, Herr Jesu Christ, BWV 639 I knew I would have to own a recording of it. It's my favorite track on the cd, although all of them are good. The sound of the recording is clear without much annoying resonnance. The playing is good (I don't own any other solo organ pieces to compare it to, however.) The only thing I don't care for is the "St Anne" Prelude and Fugue which I find unusually boring for a J.S. Bach piece.

Average customer rating:

Bach for professional listeners
Bach Organ Works on original organs

Bach: The Organ Works (Box Set)
J.S. Bach , and Werner Jacob
Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Fugues | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Preludes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Sacred & Religious | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

Classical | Box Sets | Stores | Music
Similar Items:

Beethoven - The Complete String Quartets / Alban Berg Quartet
Water Music / Fireworks Music / Concerti Grossi
Bach: Orchestral Suites & Concertos
Beethoven: Piano Trios; Violin & Cello Sonatas
Tchaikovsky: The Ballets / André Previn

ASIN: B00004YA0W
Release Date: 2000-11-07

Tracks:

Fantasia C, BWV.570
Chorale Vars (Partite Diverse): Sei Gegrusset, Jesu Gutig, BWV.768
Fugue On A Theme C, BWV.574
Chorale: Wir Christenleut', BWV.710
Trio Son No.4 e, BWV.528: I: Adagio
Trio Son No.4 e, BWV.528: II: Vivace
Trio Son No.4 e, BWV.528: III: Andante
Trio Son No.4 e, BWV.528: IV: Un Poco Allegro
Chorale: O Lamm Gottes, Unschuldig
Chorale: Christ Lag In Todesbanden, BWV.718
Kleines Harmonisches Labyrinth, BWV.591: Introitus - Centrum - Exitus (Andante)
Chorale: Allein Gott In Der Hoh', Sei Ehr', BWV. 711
Toccata, Adagio And Fugue in C, BWV.564: I: Toccata
Toccata, Adagio And Fugue in C, BWV.564: II: Adagio
Toccata, Adagio And Fugue in C, BWV.564: III: Fugue

Tracks:

Prld And Fugue in E, BWV.566: Prld
Prld And Fugue in E, BWV.566: Fugue
Prld And Fugue in E, BWV.566: Chorale Vars (Partite Diverse): O Gott, Du Frommer Gott, BWV.767
Prld And Fugue in E, BWV.566: Fantasia in C, BWV.573
Prld And Fugue in E, BWV.566: Fugue in G, BWV. 577
Prld And Fugue in E, BWV.566: Chorale: Ein' Feste Burg Ist Unser Gott, BWV.720
Prld And Fugue in E, BWV.566: Chorale: Allein Gott In Der Hoh', Sei Ehr', BWV.717
Prld And Fugue in E, BWV.566: Chorale: Christ Lag in Todesbanden, BWV.695
Prld And Fugue in E, BWV.566: Fugue in c, BWV.575
Prld And Fugue in E, BWV.566: Chorale: Wie Schon Leucht' Uns Der Morgenstern, BWV.739
Prld And Fugue in E, BWV.566: Chorale: Vater Unser Im Himmeireich, BWV.737
Prld And Fugue in E, BWV.566: Chorale: Wir Glauben All' An Einen Gott Vater, BWV.740
Prld And Fugue in E, BWV.566: Chorale Var (Partite Diverse): Christ, Der Du Bist Der Helle Tag....

Tracks:

Prld And Fugue in a, BWV.551: Prld
Prld And Fugue in a, BWV.551: Fugue
Orgel-Buchlein Nos.1-7, BWV 599-605: 1. Chorale: Nun Komm' Der Heiden Heiland
Orgel-Buchlein Nos.1-7, BWV 599-605: 2. Chorale: Gott, Durch Deine Gute
Orgel-Buchlein Nos.1-7, BWV 599-605: 3. Chorale: Herr Christ, Der Ein'ge Gottes-Sohn
Orgel-Buchlein Nos.1-7, BWV 599-605: 4. Chorale: Lob Sei Dem Allmachtigen Gott
Orgel-Buchlein Nos.1-7, BWV 599-605: 5. Chorale: Puer Natus In Bethlehem
Orgel-Buchlein Nos.1-7, BWV 599-605: 6. Chorale: Gelobet Seist Du, Jesu Christ
Orgel-Buchlein Nos.1-7, BWV 599-605: 7. Chorale: Der Tag, Der Ist So Freudenreich
Aria in F, BWV.587
Orgel-Buchlein Nos.8-10, BWV.606-608: 8. Chorale: Vom Himmel Hoch, Der Komm' Ich Her
Orgel-Buchlein Nos.8-10, BWV.606-608: 9. Chorale: Vom Himmel Kam Der Engel Schar
Orgel-Buchlein Nos.8-10, BWV.606-608: 10. Chorale: In Dulci Jubilo
Pastorale in F, BWV.590
Orgel-Buchlein Nos.11-12, BWV.609-610: 11. Chorale: Lobt Gott, Ihr Christen Allzugleich
Orgel-Buchlein Nos.11-12, BWV.609-610: 12. Chorale: Jesu, Meine Freude
Prld And Fugue in c, BWV.549: Prld
Prld And Fugue in c, BWV.549: Fugue
Orgel-Buchlein Nos.13-14, BWV.611-612: 13. Chorale: Christum Wir Sollen Loben Schon
Orgel-Buchlein Nos.13-14, BWV.611-612: 14. Chorale: Wir Christenleut'
Prld And Fugue in b, BWV.544: Prld
Prld And Fugue in b, BWV.544: Fugue
Orgel-Buchlein Nos.15-19, BWV.613-617: 15. Chorale: Helft Mir Gottes Gute Preisen
Orgel-Buchlein Nos.15-19, BWV.613-617: 16. Chorale: Das Alte Jahr Vergangen Ist
Orgel-Buchlein Nos.15-19, BWV.613-617: 17. Chorale: In Dir Ist Freude
Orgel-Buchlein Nos.15-19, BWV.613-617: 18. Chorale: Mit Fried' Und Freud' Ich Fahr Dahin
Orgel-Buchlein Nos.15-19, BWV.613-617: 19. Chorale: Herr Gott, Nun Schleuss Den Himmel Auf
Fantasia Con Imitazione in b, BWV.563

Tracks:

Prld And Fugue in e, BWV.533: Prld
Prld And Fugue in e, BWV.533: Fugue
Orgel-Buchlein Nos.20-24, BWV.618-622: 20. Chorale: O Lamm Gottes, Unschuldig
Orgel-Buchlein Nos.20-24, BWV.618-622: 21. Chorale: Christe, Du Lamm Gottes
Orgel-Buchlein Nos.20-24, BWV.618-622: 22. Chorale: Christus, Der Uns Selig Macht
Orgel-Buchlein Nos.20-24, BWV.618-622: 23. Chorale: Da Jesus An Dem Kreuze Stund
Orgel-Buchlein Nos.20-24, BWV.618-622: 24. Chorale: O Mensch, Bewein' Dein' Sunde Gross
Fantasia And Fugue in c, BWV.562: Fantasia
Fantasia And Fugue in c, BWV.562: Fugue (Fragment)
Prld And Fugue in f, BWV.534: Prld
Prld And Fugue in f, BWV.534: Fugue
Orgel-Buchlein Nos.25-26, BWV.623-624: 25. Chorale: Wir Danken Dir, Herr Jesu Christ
Orgel-Buchlein Nos.25-26, BWV.623-624: 26. Chorale: Hilf Gott, Dass Mir's Gelinge
Trio in c, BWV.585
Orgel-Buchlein Nos.25-26, BWV.625-627: 27. Chorale: Christ Lag In Todesbanden
Orgel-Buchlein Nos.25-26, BWV.625-627: 28. Chorale: Jesus Christus, Unser Heiland
Orgel-Buchlein Nos.25-26, BWV.625-627: 29. Chorale: Christ Ist Erstanden
Prld And Fugue in C, BWV.531: Prld
Prld And Fugue in C, BWV.531: Fugue
Orgel-Buchlein Nos.30-32, BWV.628-630: 30. Chorale: Erstanden Ist Der Heil'ge Christ
Orgel-Buchlein Nos.30-32, BWV.628-630: 31. Chorale: Erschienen Ist Der Herrliche Tag
Orgel-Buchlein Nos.30-32, BWV.628-630: 32. Chorale: Heut' Triumphieret Gottes Sohn
Trio in d, BWV.583
Orgel-Buchlein Nos.33-34 & 36, BWV.631-632 & BWV.634: 33. Chorale: Komm, Gott Schopfer..
Orgel-Buchlein Nos.33-34 & 36, BWV.631-632 & BWV.634: 34. Chorale: Herr Jesu Christ,...
Orgel-Buchlein Nos.33-34 & 36, BWV.631-632 & BWV.634: 36. Chorale: Liebster Jesu, Wir Sind Hier

Tracks:

Prld And Fugue in c, BWV.546: Prld
Prld And Fugue in c, BWV.546: Fugue
Orgel-Buchlein Nos.37-39, BWV.635-637: 37. Chorale: Dies Sind Die Heil'gen Zehn Gebot'
Orgel-Buchlein Nos.37-39, BWV.635-637: 38. Chorale: Vater Unser Im Himmelreich
Orgel-Buchlein Nos.37-39, BWV.635-637: 39. Chorale: Durch Adams Fall Ist Ganz Verderbt
Trio in G, BWV.586
Orgel-Buchlein Nos.40-42, BWV.638-640: 40. Chorale: Es Ist Das Heil Uns Kommen Her
Orgel-Buchlein Nos.40-42, BWV.638-640: 41. Chorale: Ich Ruf' Zu Dir, Herr Jesu Christ
Orgel-Buchlein Nos.40-42, BWV.638-640: 42. Chorale: In Dich Hab' Ich Gehoffet, Herr
Pedal-Exercitium, BWV.598
Fuge in g, BWV.578
Orgel-Buchlein Nos.43-46, BWV.641-644: 43. Chorale: Wenn Wir in Hochsten Nothen Sein
Orgel-Buchlein Nos.43-46, BWV.641-644: 44. Wer Nur Den Lieben Gott Lasst Walten
Orgel-Buchlein Nos.43-46, BWV.641-644: 45. Chorale: Alle Menschen Mussen Sterben
Orgel-Buchlein Nos.43-46, BWV.641-644: 46. Chorale: Ach Wie Nichtig, Ach Wie Fluchtig
Trio in g, BWV.584
Orgel-Buchlein No.35, BWV.633: 35. Chorale: Liebster Jesu, Wir Sind Hier
Chorale: Gott, Durch Dein Gute, BWV.724
Chorale: Gottes Sohn Ist Kommen, BWV.703
Chorale: Herr Christ, Der Ein'ge Gottes Sohn, BWV.698
Trio Son No.3 in d, BWV.527: I: Andante
Trio Son No.3 in d, BWV.527: II: Adagio E Dolce
Trio Son No.3 in d, BWV.527: III: Vivace
Fantasia And Fugue in g, BWV.542: Fantasia
Fantasia And Fugue in g, BWV.542: Fugue

Tracks:

Con in a, BWV.596: I: Grave - Fuga
Con in a, BWV.596: II: Largo
Con in a, BWV.596: Finale
Con in a, BWV.593: I: (Unknown)
Con in a, BWV.593: II: Adagio
Con in a, BWV.593: III: Allegro
Con in C, BWV, 595
Chorale: Liebster Jesu, Wir Sind Hier, BWV.731
Chorale: Liebster Jesu, Wir Sind Hier, BWV.730
Con in C, BWV.592: I: (Unknown)
Con in C, BWV.592: Grave
Con in C, BWV.592: Presto
Con in C, BWV.594: I: (Unknown)
Con in C, BWV.594: II: Rezitativ: Adagio
Con in C, BWV.594: III: Allegro
Chorale: Nun Freut Euch, Lieben Christen G'mein, BWV.734

Tracks:

Toccata And Fugue in d, BWV. 734: Toccata
Toccata And Fugue in d, BWV. 734: Fugue
Trio Son No.6 in G, BWV.530: I: Vivace
Trio Son No.6 in G, BWV.530: II: Lento
Trio Son No.6 in G, BWV.530: III: Allegro
Alla Breve in D, BWV.589
Fantasia in G, BWV.572
Chorale: Herr Gott, Dich Loben Wir, BWV.725
Chorale: Herr Jesu Christ, Dich Zu Uns Wend, BWV.709
Chorale: Herr Jesu Christ, Dich Zu Uns Wend, BWV.726
Prld And Fugue in G, BWV.541: Prld
Prld And Fugue in G, BWV.541: Fugue

Tracks:

Fantasia Super Komm, Heiliger Geist, Herre Gott, BWV.651
Chorale: Komm, Heiliger Geist, Herre Gott, BWV.652
Toccata And Fugue in d, BWV.538: Toccata
Toccata And Fugue in d, BWV.538: Fugue
Prld And Fugue in D, BWV.532: Prld
Prld And Fugue in D, BWV.532: Fugue
Trio Son No.5 in C, BWV.529: I: Allegro
Trio Son No.5 in C, BWV.529: II: Largo
Trio Son No.5 in C, BWV.529: III: Allegro
Chorale: Komm, Gott Schopfer, Heiliger Geist, BWV.667
Prld And Fugue in G, BWV.550: Prld
Prld And Fugue in G, BWV.550: Fuge
Chorale: Jesus Christus, Unser Heiland, BWV.665
Chorale: Jesus Christus, Unser Heiland, BWV.666
Prld in a, BWV.569

Tracks:

Toccata And Fugue in F, BWV.540: Toccata
Toccata And Fugue in F, BWV.540: Fugue
Chorale: Nun Komm, Der Heiden Heiland, BWV.659
Chorale: Nun Komm, Der Heiden Heiland, BWV.660
Chorale: Nun Komm, Der Heiden Heiland, BWV.661
Prld And Fugue in a, BWV.543: Prld
Prld And Fugue in a, BWV.543: Fugue
Trio Super Herr Jesu Christ, Dich Zu Uns Wend, BWV.655
Fugue On A Theme in b, BWV.579
Chorale: An Wasserflussen Babylon, BWV.653b
Fantasia And Fugue in c, BWV.537: Fantasia
Fantasia And Fugue in c, BWV.537: Fugue
Chorale: O Lamm Gottes, Unschuldig, BWV.656
Canzona in d, BWV.588
Chorale: Vor Deinen Thron Tret'ich, BWV.668

Tracks:

Prld And Fugue in C, BWV.547: Prld
Prld And Fugue in C, BWV.547: Fugue
Chorale: Von Gott Will Ich Nicht Lassen, BWV.658
Prld And Fugue in A, BWV.536: Prld
Prld And Fugue in A, BWV.536: Fugue
Chorale: Allein Gott in Der Hoh' Sei Ehr', BWV.662
Chorale: Allein Gott in Der Hoh' Sei Ehr', BWV.663
Chorale: Allein Gott in Der Hoh' Sei Ehr', BWV.664
Trio Son No.1 in Eflat, BWV.525: I: (Unknown)
Trio Son No.1 in Eflat, BWV.525: II: Adagio
Trio Son No.1 in Eflat, BWV.525: III: Allegro
Chorale: Schmucke Dich, O Liebe Seele, BWV. 654

Tracks:

Passacaglia And Fugue in c, BWV.582
Fantasia Super Jesu, Meine Freude, BWV.713
Prld And Fugue in d, BWV.539: Prld
Prld And Fugue in d, BWV.539: Fugue
Chorale Vars: Vom Himmel Hoch, Da Komm' Ich Her, BWV.769
Prld And Fugue in g, BWV.535: Prld
Prld And Fugue in g, BWV.535: Fugue
Chrale: An Wasserflussen Babylon, BWV.653
Prld And Fugue in C, BWV.545: Prld
Prld And Fugue in C, BWV.545: Fugue
Chorale: Nun Danket Alle Gott, BWV.657

Tracks:

Prld: Eflat, BWV.552/1
1. Chorale: Kyrie, Gott Vater in Ewigkeit, BWV.669
2. Chorale: Christe, Aller Welt Trost, BWV.670
3. Chorale: Kyrie, Gott Heiliger Geist, BWV.671
8. Chorale: Allein Gott in Der Hoh' Sei Ehr', BWV.676
10. Chorale: Dies Sind Die Sind Die Heil'gen Zehn Gebot', BWV.678
12. Chorale: Wir Glauben All' An Einen Gott, BWV.680
14. Chorale: Vater Unser Im Himmelreich, BWV.682
16. Chorale: Christ, Unser Herr, Zum Jordan Kam, BWV.684
18. Chorale: Aus Tiefer Not Schrei Ich Zu Dir, BWV.686
20. Chorale: Jesus Christus, Unser Heiland, BWV.688
Fugue: Eflat, BWV.552/2
Duetto No.1: e, BWV.802
Duetto No.2: F, BWV.803
Duetto No.3: G, BWV.804
Duetto No.4: a, BWV.805

Tracks:

7. Chorale: Allein Gott in Der Hoh' Sei Ehr', BWV.675
4. Chorale: Kyrie, Gott Vater in Ewigkeit, BWV.672
5. Chorale: Christe, Aller Welt Trost, BWV.673
6. Chorale: Kyrie, Gott Heiliger Geist, BWV.674
9. Fughetta Super Allein Gott in Der Hoh' Sei Ehr', BWV.677
11. Fughetta Super Dies Sind Die Heil'gen Zehn Gebot', BWV.679
13. Fughetta Super Wir Glauben All' An Einen Gott, BWV.681
15. Chorale: Vater Unser Im Himmelreich, BWV.683
17. Chorale: Christ, Unser Herr, Zum Jordan Kam, BWV.685
19. Chorale: Aus Tiefer Not Schrei Ich Zu Dir, BWV.687
21. Fuga Super Jesus Christus, Unser Heiland, BWV.689
Prld And Fugue in e, BWV.548: Prld
Prld And Fugue in e, BWV.548: Fugue
Chorale: Wachet Auf, Ruft Uns Die Stimme, BWV.645
Chorale: Wo Soll Ich Fliehen Hin, BWV.646
Chorale: Wer Nur Den Lieben Gott Lasst Walten, BWV.647
Chorale: Meine Seele Erhebet Den Herren, BWV.648
Chorale: Ach, Blieb' Bei Uns Herr Jesu Christ, BWV.649
Chorale: Kommst Du Nun, Jesu, Vom Himmel, BWV.650
Trio Son No.2 c, BWV.526: I: Vivace
Trio Son No.2 c, BWV.526: II: Largo
Trio Son No.2 c, BWV.526: III: Allegro

Tracks:

Fuga Sopra Il Magnificat, BWV.733
Chorale: Nun Komm' Der Heiden Heiland, BWV.699
Chorale: Lob Sei Dem Allmacht'gen Gott, BWV.704
Chorale: Vom Himmel Hoch, Da Komm' Ich Her, BWV.738
Chorale: Allein Gott in Der Hoh' Sei Ehr', BWV. 715
Chorale: Gelobet Seist Du, Jesu Christ, BWV.722
Chorale: Vom Himmel Hoch, Da Komm' Ich Her, BWV.700
Chorale: Christum Wir Sollen Loben Schon, BWV.696
Chorlae: Lobt Gott, Ihr Christen, Allzugleich, BWV.732
Chorale: In Dulci Jubilo, BWV.729
Chorale: Gelobet Seist Du, Jesu Christ, BWV.697
Chorale: Vom Himmel Hoch, Da Komm' Ich Her, BWV.701
Prld in G, BWV.568
Fantasia Super Valet Will Ich Dir Geben, BWV.735
Chorale: Ach Gott, Vom Himmel Sieh' Darein, BWV.741
Chorale: Ach Gott Und Herr, BWV.714
Chorale: In Dich Hab' Ich Gehoffet, Herr, BWV.712
Chorale: Erbarm' Dich Mein, O Herre Christ, BWV.721
Chorale: Herzlich Tut Mich Verlangen, BWV.727
Chorale: Wo Soll Ich Fliehen Hin, BWV.728
Chorale: Jesus, Meine Zuversicht, BWV.728
Chorale: Wer Nu Den Lieben Gott Lasst Walten, BWV.691
Chorale: Wer Nur Den Lieben Gott Lasst Walten, BWV.690
Chorale: Liebster Jesu, Wir Sind Hier, BWV.706
Chorale: Valet Will Ich Dir Geben, BWV.736

Tracks:

1. Chorale: Der Tag, Der Ist So Freudenreich, BWV.719
2. Chorale: Wir Christenleut', BWV.1090
3. Chorale: Das Alte Jahr Vergangen Ist, BWV.1091
4. Chorale: Her Gott, Nun Schleuss Den Himmel Auf, BWV.1092
5. Chorale: Herzliebster Jesu, Was Hast Du Verbrochen, BWV.1093
6. Chorale: O Jesu, Wie Ist Dein Gestalt, BWV.1094
7. Chorale: O Lamm Gottes, Unschuldig, BWV.1095
8. Chorale: Christe, Der Du Bist Tag Und Licht, BWV.1096
9. Chorale: Ehre Sei Dir, Christe, Der Du Leidest Not, BWV.1097
10. Chorale: Wir Glauben All in Einen Gott, BWV.1098
11. Chorale: Aus Tiefer Not Schrei Ich Zu Dir, BWV.1099
12. Chorale: Allein Zu Dir, Herr Jesu Christ, BWv.1100
13. Chorale: Ach Gott Und Herr, BWV.714
14. Chorale: Ach Herr, Mich Armen Sunder, BWV.742
15. Chorale: Durch Adams Fall Ist Ganz Verderbt, BWV. 1101
16. Chorale: Du Friedefurst, Herr Jesu, BWV.1102
17. Chorale: Erhalt Uns, Herr, Bei Deinem Wort, BWV.1103
18. Chorale: Vater Unser Im Himmelreich, BWV.737
19. Chorale: Wenn Dich Ungluck Tut Greifen An, BWV.1104
20. Chorale: Jesu, Meine Freude, BWV.1105
21. Chorale: Gott Ist Mein Heil, Mein Hilf Und Trost, BWV.1106
22. Chorale: Jesus, Meines Lebens Leben, BWV.1107
23. Chorale: Als Jesus Christ in Der Nacht, BWV.1108
24. Chorale: Ach Gott, Zu Dich Erbarmen, BWV.1109
25. Chorale: O Herre Gott, Dein Gottlich Wort, BWV.1110

Tracks:

26. Chorale: Nun Lasst Uns Den Leib Begraben, BWV.1111
27. Chorale: Christus, Der Ist Mein Leben, BWV.1112
28. Chorale: Ich Hab' Mein Sach Gott Heimgestellt, BWV.1113
29. Chorale: Herr Jesu Christ, Du Hochstes Gut, BWV.1114
30. Chorale: Herzlich Lieb Hab' Ich Dich, O Herr, BWV.1115
31. Chorale: Was Gott Tut, Das Ist Wohlgetan, BWV.1116
32. Chorale: Alle Menschen Mussen Sterben, BWV.1117
33. Chorale: Mach's Mit Mir Gott, Nach Deiner Gut
34. Chorale: Werde Munter Mein Gemute, BWV.1118
35. Chorale: Wie Nach Einer Wasserquelle, BWV.1119
36. Chorale: Christe, Der Du Bist Der Helle Tag, BWV.1120
37. Chorale: Ich Ruf' Zu Dir, Herr Jesu Christ, BWV.639
38. Chorale: Herr Christ Der Ein'ge Gottes-Sohn, BWV.601
Prld And Fugue in C, BWV.553
Prld And Fugue in d, BWV.554
Prld And Fugue in e, BWV.555
Prld And Fugue in F, BWV.556
Prld And Fugue in G, BWV.557
Prld And Fugue in g, BWV.558
Prld And Fugue in a, BWV.559
Prld And Fugue in Bflat, BWV.560

Customer Reviews:

Bach for professional listeners.......2006-01-30

What I found amazing about this boxset is the opportunity to enjoy Bach in complete form. From my point of view Passacaglia performed by Werner Jacob is a five star performance. Also BWV 593 and BWV 596 push up and show up no limits for the listener. This 16 CDs aggregate the perfect union between the artist, instrument, listener and Bach. And at the end of the day I can say that organ works can still be ... trendy. Enjoy!

Bach Organ Works on original organs.......2004-10-24

121 organ tracks or works on 16 CDs has to be spaced out in about six days. The music is so restful I found myself dowsing. The price for a new set through Amazon was right. Bach organ hymns made Luther.

Average customer rating:

One of the great CD sets of all time
One of two "keepers"
Bach the organ works
Peter Hurford gives incisive readings
EMPHATICALLY 5 stars!

Bach: The Organ Works
Johann Sebastian Bach , and Peter Hurford
Manufacturer: Polygram Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Fugues | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Preludes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Sacred & Religious | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

Classical | Box Sets | Stores | Music
ASIN: B0000041KD
Release Date: 1995-07-10

Tracks:

Toccata And Fugue In F Major: Toccata
Toccata And Fugue In F Major: Fugue
Prelude And Fugue In G Major
Prelude And Fugue In E Minor: Prelude
Prelude And Fugue In E Minor: Fugue
Prelude And Fugue In C Major
Prelude And Fugue In C Minor
Prelude and Fugue in D major: Prelude
Prelude and Fugue in D major: Fugue
Toccata And Fugue In D Minor: Toccata
Toccata And Fugue In D Minor: Fugue

Tracks:

Toccata, Adagio, And Fugue In C Major: Toccata
Toccata, Adagio, And Fugue In C Major: Adagio
Toccata, Adagio, And Fugue In C Major: Fugue
Fantasia And Fugue In C Major
Prelude And Fugue In E Minor
Prelude And Fugue In A Minor
Kleines harmonisches Labyrinth
Toccata And Fugue In D Minor: Toccata
Toccata And Fugue In D Minor: Fugue
Trio In C Minor
Fantasia And Fugue In G Minor: Fantasia
Fantasia And Fugue In G Minor: Fugue

Tracks:

Fantasia In G Major
Fugue In B Minor
Trio In D Minor
Prelude And Fugue In G Minor
Fantasia In C Minor
Fugue In G Major
Fantasia And Fugue In C Minor: Fantasia
Fantasia And Fugue In C Minor: Fugue
Fugue In G Major
Fugue In C Minor
Fugue In G Major
Fantasia And Fugue In C Major
Pedal-Exercitium
Passacaglia And Fugue In C Minor: Passacaglia
Passacaglia And Fugue In C Minor: Fugue

Tracks:

Clavier Ubung III: Prelude In E Flat Major
Clavier Ubung III: Kyrie, Gott Vater in Ewigkeit
Clavier Ubung III: Christe, aller Welt Trost
Clavier Ubung III: Kyrie, Gott heiliger Geist
Clavier Ubung III: Allein Gott in der Hoh' sei Ehr'
Clavier Ubung III: Dies sind die heilgen
Clavier Ubung III: Wir glauben all' an einen Gott
Clavier Ubung III: Vater unser im Himmelreich
Clavier Ubung III: Christ unser Herr zum Jordan kam
Clavier Ubung III: Aus tiefer Not schrei ich zu dir
Clavier Ubung III: Jesus Christus unser Heiland, der von uns
Clavier Ubung III: Fugue In E Flat Major

Tracks:

Clavier Ubung III: Kyrie, Gott Vater in Ewigkeit
Clavier Ubung III: Christe, aller Welt Trost
Clavier Ubung III: Kyrie, Gott heiliger Geist
Clavier Ubung III: Allein Gott in der Hoh' sei Ehr'
Clavier Ubung III: Allein Gott in der Hoh' sei Ehr'
Clavier Ubung III: Dies sind die heilgen sehn Gebot'
Clavier Ubung III: Wir glauben all' an einen Gott
Clavier Ubung III: Vater unse im Himmelreich
Clavier Ubung III: Christ unser Herr zum Jordan kam
Clavier Ubung III: Aus tiefer Not schrei ich zu dir
Clavier Ubung III: Jesus Christus unser Hieland, der von uns
Chorale Preludes From The Kirnberger Collection: Wer nur den lieben Gott lasst walten
Chorale Preludes From The Kirnberger Collection: Wer nur den lieben Gott lasst walten
Chorale Preludes From The Kirnberger Collection: Ach Gott und Herr
Chorale Preludes From The Kirnberger Collection: Ach Gott und Herr
Chorale Preludes From The Kirnberger Collection: Wo soll ich fliehen hin
Chorale Preludes From The Kirnberger Collection: Christ lag in Todesbanden
Chorale Preludes From The Kirnberger Collection: Christum sollen wir loben schon
Chorale Preludes From The Kirnberger Collection: Gelobet seist du, Jesu Christ
Chorale Preludes From The Kirnberger Collection: Herr Christ, der ein'ge Gottes Sohn
Chorale Preludes From The Kirnberger Collection: Nun komm', der Heiden Heiland
Chorale Preludes From The Kirnberger Collection: Vom Himmel hoch, da komm' ich her
Chorale Preludes From The Kirnberger Collection: Vom Himmel hoch, da komm' ich her
Chorale Preludes From The Kirnberger Collection: Das Jesulein soll doch mein Trost
Chorale Preludes From The Kirnberger Collection: Gottes Sohn ist kommen
Chorale Preludes From The Kirnberger Collection: Lob sei dem allmachtigen
Chorale Preludes From The Kirnberger Collection: Durch Adams Fall ist ganz verderbt
Chorale Preludes From The Kirnberger Collection: Liebster Jesu, wir sind hier
Chorale Preludes From The Kirnberger Collection: Ich hab' mein Sach' Gott heimgestellt
Chorale Preludes From The Kirnberger Collection: Ich hab' mein Sach' Gott heimgestellt
Chorale Preludes From The Kirnberger Collection: Herr Jesu Christ, dich zu uns wend'
Chorale Preludes From The Kirnberger Collection: Wir Christenleut
Chorale Preludes From The Kirnberger Collection: Allein Gott in der Hoh' sei Ehr'
Chorale Preludes From The Kirnberger Collection: In dich hab' ich gehoffet, Herr
Chorale Preludes From The Kirnberger Collection: Jesu, meine Freude

Tracks:

Sonata No. 1 In E Flat Major: I Allegro moderato
Sonata No. 1 In E Flat Major: II Adagio
Sonata No. 1 In E Flat Major: III Allegro
Sonata No. 2 In C Minor: I Vivace
Sonata No. 2 In C Minor: II Largo
Sonata No. 2 In C Minor: III Allegro
Sonata No. 3 In D Minor: I Andante
Sonata No. 3 In D Minor: II Adagio e dolce
Sonata No. 3 In D Minor: III Vivace
Sonata No. 4 In E Minor: I Adagio - Vivace
Sonata No. 4 In E Minor: II Andante
Sonata No. 4 In E Minor: III Un poco allegro
Sonata No. 5 In C Major: I Allegro
Sonata No. 5 In C Major: II Largo
Sonata No. 5 In C Major: III Allegro
Sonata No. 6 In G Major: I Vivace
Sonata No. 6 In G Major: II Lento
Sonata No. 6 In G Major: III Allegro

Tracks:

Chorale Variations: Ach, was soll ich Sunder machen
Chorale Variations: Christ, du bist der helle Tag
Chorale Variations: O Gott, du frommer Gott
Chorale Variations: Canonische Veranderungen: Vom Himmel hoch, da komm' ich her
Chorale Variations: Sei gegrusset, Jesu gutig

Tracks:

Choralvariationen: Allein Gott in der Hoh' sei Ehr'
Schubler Chorale Preludes: Wachet auf, ruft uns die Stimme
Schubler Chorale Preludes: Wo soll ich fliehen hin
Schubler Chorale Preludes: Wer nur den lieben Gott labt walten
Schubler Chorale Preludes: Meine Seele erhebt den Herren
Schubler Chorale Preludes: Ach bleib' bei uns, Herr Jesu Christ
Schubler Chorale Preludes: Kommst du nun, Jesu, vom Himmel herunter
Chorale Preludes: Liebster Jesue, wir sind hier
Chorale Preludes: Liebster Jesu, wir sind hier
Chorale Preludes: Lobt Gott, ihr Christen, allzugleich
Chorale Preludes: Meine Seele erhebt den Herren
Chorale Preludes: Nun freut euch, lieben Christen g'mein
Chorale Preludes: Valet will ich dir geben
Chorale Preludes: Valet will ich dir geben
Chorale Preludes: Vater unser im Himmelreich
Chorale Preludes: Vom Himmel hoch, da komm' ich her
Chorale Preludes: Wie schon leuchtet der Morgenstern
Chorale Preludes: Wie glauben all' an einen Gott

Tracks:

Concerto No. 1 In G Major: (Allegro)
Concerto No. 1 In G Major: Grave
Concerto No. 1 In G Major: Presto
Concerto No. 2 In A Minor: (Allegro)
Concerto No. 2 In A Minor: Adagio
Concerto No. 2 In A Minor: Allegro
Concerto No. 3 In C Major: (Allegro)
Concerto No. 3 In C Major: Adagio
Concerto No. 3 In C Major: Allegro
Concerto No. 4 In C Major
Concerto No. 5 In D Minor: (Allegro) - Grave e fuga
Concerto No. 5 In D Minor: Largo e spiccato
Concerto No. 5 In D Minor: (Allegro)
Concerto No. 6 In E Flat Major
Chorale Preludes: Herr Jesu Christ, dich zu uns wend'
Chorale Preludes: Herzlich tut mich verlangen
Chorale Preludes: Jesus, meine Zuversicht
Chorale Preludes: In dulci jubilo

Tracks:

Neumeister Chorale Preludes: Der Tag, der ist so freudenreich (Ein Kindelein so lobelich)
Neumeister Chorale Preludes: Wir Christenleut
Neumeister Chorale Preludes: Das alte Jahr vergangen ist
Neumeister Chorale Preludes: Herr Gott, nun schleuss den Himmel auf
Neumeister Chorale Preludes: Herzliebster Jesu, was hast du verbrochen
Neumeister Chorale Preludes: O Jesu, wie ist dein Gestalt
Neumeister Chorale Preludes: O Lamm Gottes, unschuldig
Neumeister Chorale Preludes: Christe, der du bist Tag und Licht
Neumeister Chorale Preludes: Ehre sei dir, Christe, der du leidest Not
Neumeister Chorale Preludes: Wir glauben all' an einen Gott
Neumeister Chorale Preludes: Aus tiefster Not schrei ich zu dir
Neumeister Chorale Preludes: Allein zu dir, Herr Jesu Christ
Neumeister Chorale Preludes: Ach, Gott und Herr
Neumeister Chorale Preludes: Ach Herr, mich armen Sunder (Herzlich tut mich verlangen)
Neumeister Chorale Preludes: Durch Adams Fall ist ganz verderbt
Neumeister Chorale Preludes: Du Friedefurst, Herr Jesu Christ
Neumeister Chorale Preludes: Erhalt uns, Herr, bei deinem Wort
Neumeister Chorale Preludes: Wenn dich Ungluck tut greifen an
Neumeister Chorale Preludes: Jesu, meine Freude
Neumeister Chorale Preludes: Gott ist mein Heil, mein Hilf und Trost
Neumeister Chorale Preludes: Jesu, meines Lebens Leben
Neumeister Chorale Preludes: Als Jesus Christus in der Nacht
Neumeister Chorale Preludes: Ach Gott, tu dich erbarmen
Neumeister Chorale Preludes: O Herre Gott dein gottlich Wort
Neumeister Chorale Preludes: Nun lasst uns den Leib begraben
Neumeister Chorale Preludes: Christus, der ist mein Leben
Neumeister Chorale Preludes: Ich hab mein Sach Gott heimgestellt
Neumeister Chorale Preludes: Herr Jesu Christ, du hochstes Gut
Neumeister Chorale Preludes: Herzlich lieb hab ich dich, o Herr
Neumeister Chorale Preludes: Was Gott tut, das ist wohlgetan
Neumeister Chorale Preludes: Alle Menschen mussen sterben

Tracks:

Neumeister Chorales: Machs mit mir, Gott, nach deiner Gut
Neumeister Chorales: Werde munter, mein Gemute
Neumeister Chorales: Wie nach einer Wasserquelle
Neumeister Chorales: Christ, der du bist der helle Tag
'The Eighteen' Chorale Preludes: Komm, heiliger Geist
'The Eighteen' Chorale Preludes: Komm, heiliger Geist
'The Eighteen' Chorale Preludes: An Wasserflussen Babylon
'The Eighteen' Chorale Preludes: Schmucke dich, o liebe Seele
'The Eighteen' Chorale Preludes: Herr Jesu Christ, dich zu uns wend'
'The Eighteen' Chorale Preludes: O Lamm Gottes unschuldig
'The Eighteen' Chorale Preludes: Nun danket alle Gott
'The Eighteen' Chorale Preludes: Von Gott will ich nicht lassen
'The Eighteen' Chorale Preludes: Nun komm' der Heiden Heiland
'The Eighteen' Chorale Preludes: Nun komm' der Heiden Heiland
'The Eighteen' Chorale Preludes: Nun komm' der Heiden Heiland
'The Eighteen' Chorale Preludes: Allein Gott in der Hoh' sei Ehr'

Tracks:

'The Eighteen' Chorale Preludes: Allein Gott in der Hoh' sei Ehr'
'The Eighteen' Chorale Preludes: Allein Gott in der Hoh' sei Ehr'
'The Eighteen' Chorale Preludes: Jesus Christus, unser Heiland
'The Eighteen' Chorale Preludes: Jesus Christus, unser Heiland
'The Eighteen' Chorale Preludes: Komm, Gott, Schopfer, heiliger Geist
'The Eighteen' Chorale Preludes: Vor deinen Thron (Wenn wir in hochsten Noten sein)
Miscellaneous Chorale Preludes: O Lamm Gottes unschuldig
Miscellaneous Chorale Preludes: Ach Gott und Herr
Miscellaneous Chorale Preludes: Allein Gott in der Hoh' sei Ehr'
Miscellaneous Chorale Preludes: Allein Gott in der Hoh' sei Ehr'
Miscellaneous Chorale Preludes: Allein Gott in der Hoh' sei Ehr'
Miscellaneous Chorale Preludes: Christ Lag in Todesbanden
Miscellaneous Chorale Preludes: Der Tag, der ist so freudenreich
Miscellaneous Chorale Preludes: Ein' festeBurg ist unser Gott
Miscellaneous Chorale Preludes: Erbarm' dich mein, o Herre Gott
Miscellaneous Chorale Preludes: Gelobet seist du, Jesu Christ
Miscellaneous Chorale Preludes: Gelobet seist du, Jesu Christ
Miscellaneous Chorale Preludes: Gottes Sohn ist kommen
Miscellaneous Chorale Preludes: Herr Gott, wir loben dich

Tracks:

Eight Short Preludes And Fugues: Prelude And Fugue In C Major
Eight Short Preludes And Fugues: Prelude And Fugue In D Minor
Eight Short Preludes And Fugues: Prelude And Fugue In E Minor
Eight Short Preludes And Fugues: Prelude And Fugue In F Major
Eight Short Preludes And Fugues: Prelude And Fugue In G Major
Eight Short Preludes And Fugues: Prelude And Fugue In G Minor
Eight Short Preludes And Fugues: Prelude And Fugue In A Minor
Eight Short Preludes And Fugues: Prelude And Fugue In B Flat Major
Trio In G Major
Prelude and Fugue in F minor: Prelude
Prelude and Fugue in F minor: Fugue
Trio In G Minor
Prelude and Fugue in A major: Prelude
Prelude and Fugue in A major: Fugue
Prelude and Fugue in G major: Prelude
Prelude and Fugue in G major: Fugue
Allabreve In D Major
Prelude In G Major
Fugue In D Major
Prelude and Fugue in D minor: Prelude
Prelude and Fugue in D minor: Fugue

Tracks:

Prelude And Fugue In C Minor: Prelude
Prelude And Fugue In C Minor: Fugue
Prelude In C Major
Fugue In G Minor
Canzona In D Minor
Prelude In A Minor
Fugue In C Minor
Pastorale In F Major
Fantasia In G Major
Aria In F Major
Prelude and Fugue in C major: Prelude
Prelude and Fugue in C major: Fugue

Tracks:

Toccata And Fugue In E Major: Toccata
Toccata And Fugue In E Major: Fugues I & II
Fantasia In B Minor
Prelude and Fugue in A minor: Prelude
Prelude and Fugue in A minor: Fugue
Prelude and Fugue in B minor: Prelude
Prelude and Fugue in B minor: Fugue
Prelude and Fugue in C major: Prelude
Prelude and Fugue in C major: Fugue
Trio In G Major
Prelude, Trio And Fugue In B Flat Major: Prelude
Prelude, Trio And Fugue In B Flat Major: Trio
Prelude, Trio And Fugue In B Flat Major: Fugue
Ricercar A 6 In C Minor
Prelude And Fugue In G Minor

Tracks:

Nun komm, der Heiden Heiland
Gottes Sohn ist kommen
Herr Christ, der ein'ge Gottes Sohn
Lob sei dem allmachtigen Gott
Puer natus in Bethlehem
Gelobet seist du, Jesu Christ
Der Tag, der ist so freudenreich
Vom Himmel hoch, da komm ich her
Vom Himmel kam der Engel Schar
In dulci jubilo
Lobt Gott, ihr Christen allzugleich
Jesu, meine Freude
Christum wir sollen loben schon
Wir Christenleut
Helft mir, Gottes Gute preisen
Das alte Jahr vergangen ist
In dir ist Freude
Mit Fried' und Freud' ich fahr dahin
Herr Gott, nun schleuss den Himmel auf
O Lamm Gottes, unschuldig
Christe, du Lamm Gottes
Christus, der uns selig macht
Da Jesus an dem Kreuze stund
O Mensch, bewein dein Sunde gross
Wir danken dir, Herr Jesu Christ
Hif Gott, dass mir's gelinge
Christ lag in Todesbanden
Jesus Christus, unser Heiland
Christ ist erstanden
Erstanden ist der heil' ge Geist
Erschienen ist der herrliche Tag
Heut triumphieret
Komm, Gott, Schopfer, heiliger Geist
Herr Jesu Christ, dich zu uns wend'
Liebster Jesu, wir sind hier
Liebster Jesu, wir sind hier
Dies sind die heilgen zehn Gebot
Vater unser im Himmelreich
Durch Adams Fall ist ganz verderbt
Es ist da Heil uns kommen her
Ich ruf' zu dir, Herr Jesu Christ

Tracks:

In dich hab ich gehoffet, Herr
Wenn wir in hochsten Noten sein
Wer nur den lieben Gott lasst walten
Alle Menschen mussen sterben
Ach wie nichtig, ach wie fluchtig
Ach Gott, vom Himmel sieh' darein
Ach Herr, mich armen Sunder
Ach, was ist doch unser Leben
Auf meinen lieben Gott
Aus der Tiefe rufe ich
Christ ist erstanden
Christus, der uns selig macht
Gott der Vater wohn' uns bei
In dulci jubilo
Jesu, der du meine Seele
Liebster Jesu wir sind hier
Nun freut euch
O Herre Gott, dein gottlich Wort
O Vater, allmachtiger Gott
Schmucke dich, o liebe Seele
Vater unser im Himmelreich
Vater unser im Himmelreich
Vater unser im Himmelreich
Wie schon leuchtet der Morgenstern
Wir glauben all' an einen Gott
Christus, der uns selig macht
Herr Christ, der einig Gotts Sohn
Fugue In G Minor

Amazon.com

When it comes to organ music there's Bach, and there's everyone else. The actual amount of organ music that he composed is in dispute for a couple of reasons. On issue is attribution: much of the music exists only in copies from Bach's pupils and family members, and so the question of authorship may be in doubt. The other issue is which instrument Bach actually intended some of the keyboard music to be played on. Although scholars agonize over this problem, the fact is that Bach's music usually sounds fine played even on kazoos--it's almost indestructible--so the organ suits it in any case. This collection is one of the most comprehensive available, and it's excellently played and recorded. --David Hurwitz

Customer Reviews:

One of the great CD sets of all time.......2006-02-08

Like another reviewer here I grew up on Helmut Walcha's DG set on LP, and was also familiar with a number of other "great Bach organ work" collections.

One can cavil over the way Hurford takes some of the pieces, I suppose, but his flair, imaginative registrations, and sheer musicality are hard to beat, and the recording too is fantastic.

It's quite easy to listen to three or four CDs from this set in a row, which says something about how fertile Bach's imagination, but also how absorbing Hurford's performance, and how willing he is to avoid generic and worthy church-like interpretations. This is music and music-making of the highest quality.

One of two "keepers".......2005-07-02

A lot of reviews rave about this set. I just wish they would say why it's so good and I hope they're, well, comparing it to something. Most seem to like the "choice of registration" which maybe one way an organist sizes another up.

Preferences in interpretation generally reflect the emphera of a time, and not absolutes. Choice one for this guy is probably Walcha. Dignified and insightful playing probably much more in line with what was expected of, and provided by, Bach way back when.

This set is flashier and lighter in some ways, more bombastic in others--very much a late Twentieth Century effort. Superficial. It suits a less thoughtful approach to the music which isn't a bad thing and isn't necessarily "damning with faint praise." I just doubt if this is really what the music should sound like and I don't mean that in the same way when I say that about Gould's playing. Gould was highlighting an intense part of Bach's craft, pointing the way into the music so to say.

This is a good set for those who like to shake the timbers with organ music; when it was first released in the early digital era it was marketed that way. Bach's music is pretty bullet-proof so it can stand this kind of approach. If you're not a hyper-critical listener, a period instrument hardliner, or a professional organist with strong well thought out opinions this is probably the set for you as the Walcha will sound dry and academic. On the other hand, if you are a powerful admirer of rock and roll classical this might actually be way too much Bach for you. I generally play this set (or Stokowski transcriptions) when I'm in a brain-dead mood and I want Bach-like stimulation without any work on my part. It's really quite nice.

Bach the organ works.......2004-11-23

A poor, jumpy, amateurish and unimaginative rendition of the pedal exercitium in g minor is what sticks to mind. Although its only an exercise i think it's worth more than that. More interesting stop combinations could have been used here. The toccata and fugue in d minor was too 'fancy' and was a boring affair overall with a silly choice of stops. I expected more from Peter Hurford. If this is the first time you've heard organ music please don't run away beacause of this. It can be so much more intersting.

Overall i dont think these performances do Bach Justice. Better versions can be found at virtuallybaroque.com (not my site)and better still competely free.

Peter Hurford gives incisive readings.......2004-04-05

Peter Hurford's traversal of the entire organ literature for London Decca is truly one of the greatest recorded achievements. All of the performances in this seventeen-disc set are immaculately played and perfectly performed. His vision, technicality, and sensibility make him a sensitive and authoritative interpreter of J.S. Bach's organ works. The records are mostly digital, crystal clear, and quite powerful. Hurford's command of his technique is astounding. I cannot stress how important this set truly is. I HIGHLY recommend buying this compilation. At about 8 dollars a CD, this is most certainly a steal.

EMPHATICALLY 5 stars!.......2004-02-27

Bach's organ works place incredible demands on the performer, both physically (consider the endurance it takes to play the massive Toccata in F major), technically (the Trio Sonatas, among many others), and interpretationally. Peter Hurford triumphantly meets those demands in a spectacular set of recordings.

To those who are doubters: listen to the (in)famous Toccata and Fugue in D minor, that overplayed warhorse. Hurford brings to it an electricity that makes you feel you are hearing it for the first time again. He also has an amazing ear for registrations, one of the most underestimated difficulties of an organist's art, never wearying the ear, but using a wide palette of colors. [Bach himself was widely known for his innovative registrational practices. Contemporaries remarked that when he was testing organs he would pull combinations of stops that they were certain would sound badly together, only to find that he had created an entirely new sound. Thus, creative registrations should not offend purists in any way.]

Hurford's approach to these works obviously takes into consideration, but is certainly not bound by, historically informed performing practices. His phrasing is immaculate, and consistently interesting. In all, this is a stunning accomplishment.

Tracks:

Prld & Fuge in e, BWV 548: Praludium
Prld & Fuge in e, BWV 548: Fuge
Choral: An Wasserflussen Babylon..., BWV 653
Choral: Von Gott will ich nicht lassen..., BWV 658
Choral: Schmucke dich, o liebe Seele..., BWV 654
Prld & Fuge in b, BWV 544: Praludium
Prld & Fuge in b, BWV 544: Fuge
Drei Chorale: Allein Gott in der Hoh' sei Ehr'...: Cantus firmus im Sopran, BWV 662
Drei Chorale: Allein Gott in der Hoh' sei Ehr'...: Cantus firmus im Tenor, BWV 663
Drei Chorale: Allein Gott in der Hoh' sei Ehr'...: Trio, BWV 664

Tracks:

Toccata (Dorisch) & Fuge in d, BWV 538: Toccata
Toccata (Dorisch) & Fuge in d, BWV 538: Fuge
Orgelbuchlein, BWV 618: O Lamm Gottes unschuldig
Orgelbuchlein, BWV 619: Christe, du Lamm Gottes
Orgelbuchlein, BWV 620: Christus, der uns selig macht
Orgelbuchlein, BWV 621: Da Jesus an dem Kreuze stund
Orgelbuchlein, BWV 622: O Mensch, bewein' dein' Sunde gro
Orgelbuchlein, BWV 623: Wir danken dir, Herr Jesu Christ
Orgelbuchlein, BWV 624: Hilf Gott, damir's gelinge
Prld & Fuge in g, BWV 535: Prld
Prld & Fuge in g, BWV 535: Fuge
Orgelbuchlein, BWV 625: Christ lag in Todesbanden
Orgelbuchlein, BWV 626: Jesus Christus, unser Heiland
Orgelbuchlein, BWV 627: Christ ist erstanden (3 vers)
Orgelbuchlein, BWV 628: Erstanden ist der heil'ge Christ
Orgelbuchlein, BWV 629: Erschienen ist der herrliche Tag
Orgelbuchlein, BWV 630: Heut' triumphiret Gottes Sohn
Toccata & Fuge in C, BWV 566: Toccata
Toccata & Fuge in C, BWV 566: Fuge
Orgelbuchlein, BWV 631: Komm, Gott Schopfer, heilieger Geist
Orgelbuchlein, BWV 632: Herr Jesu Christ, dich zu uns wend

Tracks:

Prld & Fuge in C, BWV 545: Prld
Prld & Fuge in C, BWV 545: Fuge
Fuge in G, BWV 577
Prld & Fuge in d, BWV 539: Prld
Prld & Fuge in d, BWV 539: Fuge
Choral: Wo soll ich fliehen hin, BWV 694
Partita sopra: O Gott, du frommer Gott, BWV 767
Choral: Wir Christenleut hab'n jetzund Freud, BWV 710
Alla Breve in D, BWV 589
Canzona in d, BWV 588
Fuge in c, BWV 575
Fuga sopra il Magnificat: Meine Seele erhebet den Herren, BWV 733
Kleines harmonisches Labyrinth (Introitus, Centrum, Exitus), BWV 591
Prld & Fuge in a, BWV 551: Prld
Prld & Fuge in a, BWV 551: Fuge

Tracks:

Prld & Fuge in e, BWV 533: Prld
Prld & Fuge in e, BWV 533: Fuge
Chorale: Nun freut euch, lieben Christen g'mein, BWV 734
Chorale: Liebster Jesu, wir sind hier, BWV 730
Chorale: Liebster Jesu, wir sind hier, BWV 731
Chorale: In dulci jubilo, BWV 729
Chorale: Herzlich tut mich verlangen, BWV 727
Prld & Fuge in C, BWV 531: Prld
Prld & Fuge in C, BWV 531: Fuge
Chorale: Herr Jesu Christ, dich zu uns wend, BWV726
Chorale: Allein Gott in der Hoh'sei Ehr' (Bicinium), BWV 711
Chorale: Allein Gott in der Hoh'sei Ehr', BWV 715
Chorale: Fuga super Allein Gott in der Hoh' sei Ehr', BWV 716
Chorale: Allein Gott in der Hoh' sei Ehr' (manualiter), BWV 717
Chorale: Christ lag in Todesbanden, BWV 718
Chorale: Ach Gott und Herr (per canonem), BWV 714
Fantasia con imitazione in b, BWV 563
Chorale: Gelobet seist du, Jesu Christ, BWV 722
Chorale: Gottes Sohn ist kommen, BWV 724
Chorale: Jesus, meine Zuversicht, BWV 728
Chorale: Lobt Gott, ihr Christen, allzugleich, BWV 732
Chorale: Vater unser im Himmelreich, BWV 737
Chorale: Vom Himmel hoch, da komm'ich her, BWV 738
Chorale: Wie schon leuchter der Morgenstern, BWV 739
Chorale: Wir glauben all' an einen Gott, BWV 765
Chorale: Herr Gott, dich loben wir, BWV 725

Tracks:

Prld & Fuge in c: Prld
Prld & Fuge in c: Fuge
Chorale: Herr Jesu Christ, dich zu uns wend, BWV 709
Chorale: Liebster Jesu, wir sind hier, BWV 706 (1+2)
Chorale: Erbarm' dich mein, o Herre Gott, BWV 721
Chorale: Wer nur den lieben Gott la walten, BWV 690
Chorale: Wer nur den lieben Gott la walten, BWV 691
Chorale: Christ lag in Todesbanden, BWV 695
Prld & Fuge in c: Prld
Prld & Fuge in c: Fuge
Partita: sopra Christ, der du bist der helle Tag, BWV 766
Sieben Fughetten Fur Die Weinachtszeit: Christum wir sollen loben schon, BWV 696
Sieben Fughetten Fur Die Weinachtszeit: Gelobet seist du, Jesu Christ, BWV 697
Sieben Fughetten Fur Die Weinachtszeit: Herr Christ, der ein'ge Gottes Sohn, BWV 698
Sieben Fughetten Fur Die Weinachtszeit: Nun komm'der Heiden Heiland, BWV 699
Sieben Fughetten Fur Die Weinachtszeit: Von Himmel hoch da komm' ich her, BWV 701
Sieben Fughetten Fur Die Weinachtszeit: Gottes Sohn ist kommen, BWV 703
Sieben Fughetten Fur Die Weinachtszeit: Lob sei dem allmachtigen Gott, BWV 704
Choral: Vom Himmel hoch da komm' ich her, BWV 700
Fuge in b uber ein Theme von Corelli, BWV 579
Fantasia: Jesu, meine Freude, BWV 713
Choral: In dich hab' ich gehoffet, Herr, BWV 712

Tracks:

Prld & Fuge in C, BWV 547: Prld
Prld & Fuge in C, BWV 547: Fuge
Canonic Vars: Vom Himmel hoch, da komm' ich her, BWV 769
Clavier Ubung Dritter Teil: Prld in E flat, BWV 552
Chorale: Kyrie, Gott Vater in Ewigkeit, BWV 669
Chorale: Christe, aller Welt Trost, BWV 670
Chorale: Kyrie, Gott heilinger Geist, BWV 671
Chorale: Kyrie, gott Vater in Ewigkeit (manualiter), BWV 672
Chorale: Christe, aller Welt Trost (manualiter), BWV 673
Chorale: Kyrie, Gott heiliger Geist (manualiter), BWV 674
Chorale: Allein Gott in der Hoh' sei Ehr', BWV 675
Chorale: Allein Gott in der Hoh' sei Ehr', BWV 676
Chorale: Allein Gott in der Hoh' sei Ehr' (Fughetta), BWV 677
Chorale: Dies sind die heil'gen zehn Gebot, BWV 678
Chorale: Dies sind die heil'gen zehn Gebot (Fughetta), BWV 679

Tracks:

Chorale: Wir glauben all' an einen Gott, BWV 680
Chorale: Wir glauben all' an einen Gott (Fughetta) (manualiter), BWV 681
Chorale: Vater unser im Himmelreich, BWV 682
Chorale: Vater unser im Himmelreich (manualiter), BMV 683
Chorale: Christ, unser Herr, zum Jordan kam, BWV 684
Chorale: Christ, unser Herr, zum Jordan kam (manualiter), BWV 685
Chorale: Aus tiefer Not schrei' ich zu dir, BWV 686
Chorale: Aus tiefer Not schrei' ich zu dir (manualiter), BWV 687
Chorale: Jesu Christus, unser Heiland, BWV 688
Chorale: Jesu Christus, unser Heiland (Fuga) (manualiter), BWV 689
Vier Duette: Duetto I, BWV 802
Vier Duette: Duetto II, BWV 803
Vier Duette: Duetto III, BWV 804
Vier Duette: Duetto IV, BWV 805
Fuge in E flat, BWV 552
Chorale: Herr Jesu Christ, dich zu uns wend' (Trio), BWV 655
Chorale: Vor Deinen Thron tret' ich, BWV 668

Tracks:

Prld & Fuge in c, BWV 546: Prld
Prld & Fuge in c, BWV 546: Fuge
Orgelbuchlein: Chorale: Liebster Jesu, wir sind hier, BWV 633
Orgelbuchlein: Chorale: Liebster Jesu, wir sind hier, BWV 634
Orgelbuchlein: Chorale: Dies sind die heil' gen zehn Gebott, BWV 635
Orgelbuchlein: Chorale: Vater unser im Himmelreich, BWV 636
Orgelbuchlein: Chorale: Durch Adam's Fall ist ganz verderbt, BWV 637
Orgelbuchlein: Chorale: Es ist das Heil uns kommen her, BWV 638
Orgelbuchlein: Chorale: Ich ruf' zu dir, Herr Jesu Christ, BWV 639
Orgelbuchlein: Chorale: Ich dich hab'ich gehoffet, Herr, BWV 640
Orgelbuchlein: Chorale: Wenn wir in hochsten Noten sein, BWV 641
Orgelbuchlein: Chorale: Wer nur den lieben Gott la walten, BWV 642
Orgelbuchlein: Chorale: Alle Menschen mussen sterben, BWV 643
Orgelbuchlein: Chorale: Ach wie nichtig, ach, wir fluchtig, BWV 644
Partita Sopra: Sei gregrut, Jesu gutig, BWV 768
Prld & Fuge in f, BWV 534: Prld
Prld & Fuge in f, BWV 534: Fuge
Fant in C, BWV 570

Tracks:

Piece d'Orgue in G, BWV 572: Tres vitement-Gravement-Lentement
Orgelbuchlein: Chorale: Nun komm' der Heiden Heiland, BWV 599
Orgelbuchlein: Chorale: Gottes Sohn ist kommen, BWV 600
Orgelbuchlein: Chorale: Herr Christ, der ein' ge Gottes Sohn, BWV 601
Orgelbuchlein: Chorale: Lob sei dem allmachtigen Gott, BWV 602
Orgelbuchlein: Chorale: Puer natus in Bethlehem, BWV 603
Orgelbuchlein: Chorale: Gelobt seist du, Jesu Christ, BWV 604
Orgelbuchlein: Chorale: Der Tag, der ist so freudenreich, BWV 605
Orgelbuchlein: Chorale: Vom Himmel hoch da komm' ich her, BWV 606
Orgelbuchlein: Chorale: Vom Himmel kam der Engel Schar, BWV 607
Orgelbuchlein: Chorale: In dulci jubilo, BWV 608
Orgelbuchlein: Chorale: Lobt Gott, ihr Christen, allzugleich, BWV 609
Orgelbuchlein: Chorale: Jesu, meine Freude, BWV 610
Orgelbuchlein: Chorale: Christum wir sollen loben schon, BWV 611
Orgelbuchlein: Chorale: Wir Christenleut, BWV 612
Orgelbuchlein: Chorale: Helft mir, Gootes Gute preisen, BWV 613
Orgelbuchlein: Chorale: Das alte Jahr vergangen ist, BWV 614
Orgelbuchlein: Chorale: In dir ist Freude, BWV 615
Orgelbuchlein: Chorale: Mir Fried' und Freud' ich fahr' dahin, BWV 616
Orgelbuchlein: Chorale: Herr Gott, nun schleuden Himmel auf, BWV 617
Fant in c, BWV 562
Choral: Wir glauben all' an einen Gott, Vater, BWV 740
Fant: Super Valet will ich dir geben, BWV 735
Choral: Valet will ich dir geben, BWV 736
Fuge uber ein Thema von Giovanni Legrenzi in c, BWV 574

Tracks:

Prld & Fuge, BWV 532: Prld
Prld & Fuge, BWV 532: Fuge
Trio in d, BWV 656
Orgelchorale aus Achtzehn Chorale: O Lamm Gottes, unschuldig, BWV 656
Orgelchorale aus Achtzehn Chorale: Nun komm, der Heiden Heiland, BWV 659
Orgelchorale aus Achtzehn Chorale: Trio super 'Nun komm, der Heiden Heiland, BWV 660
Orgelchorale aus Achtzehn Chorale: Nun komm, der Heiden Heiland' in organo pleno, BWV 661
Orgelchorale aus Achtzehn Chorale: Fantasia super Komm, heiliger Geist, BWV 651
Orgelchorale aus Achtzehn Chorale: Komm, heiliger Geist, BWV 652
Orgelchorale aus Achtzehn Chorale: Nun danket alle Gott, BWV 657
Orgelchorale aus Achtzehn Chorale: Jesus Christus, unser Heiland, BWV 665
Orgelchorale aus Achtzehn Chorale: Jesus Christus, unser Heiland, BWV 666
Orgelchorale aus Achtzehn Chorale: Komm, Gott Schopfer, BWV 667

Tracks:

Konzert in a, BWV 593: Allegro
Konzert in a, BWV 593: Adagio
Konzert in a, BWV 593: Allegro
Konzert in d, BWV 596: (Allegro)-Grave-Fuga
Konzert in d, BWV 596: Largo
Konzert in d, BWV 596: Finale
Konzert in C, BWV 594: (Allegro)
Konzert in C, BWV 594: Rezitativ Adagio
Konzert in C, BWV 594: Allegro
Konzert in G, BWV 592: (Allegro)
Konzert in G, BWV 592: Grave (Adagio)
Konzert in G, BWV 592: Presto (assai)
Konzert in C, BWV 595: (Allegro)
Aria in F, BWV 587
Prld & Fuge in A, BWV 536: Prld
Prld & Fuge in A, BWV 536: Fuge
Choral: An Wasserflussen Babylon, BWV 653b
Prld & Fuge in G, BWV 550: Prld
Prld & Fuge in G, BWV 550: Fuge
Trio in g, BWV 584

Tracks:

Toccata in d, BWV 565
Toccate & Fuge in F, BWV 540: Toccata
Toccate & Fuge in F, BWV 540: Fuge
Prld (Fant) & Fuge in g, BWV 542: Prld
Prld (Fant) & Fuge in g, BWV 542: Fuge
Pastorella, BWV 590: 1
Pastorella, BWV 590: 2
Pastorella, BWV 590: 3
Pastorella, BWV 590: 4
Prld & Fuge in a, BWV 543: Prld
Prld & Fuge in a, BWV 543: Fuge
Toccata in C, BWV 564: Toccata
Toccata in C, BWV 564: Adagio
Toccata in C, BWV 564: Fuge

Tracks:

Son I in E flat, BWV 525: Allegro moderato
Son I in E flat, BWV 525: Adagio
Son I in E flat, BWV 525: Allegro
Son II in c, BWV 526: Vivace
Son II in c, BWV 526: Largo
Son II in c, BWV 526: Allegro
Son III in d, BWV 527: Andante
Son III in d, BWV 527: Adagio e dolce
Son III in d, BWV 527: Vivace
Son IV in e, BWV 528: Adagio
Son IV in e, BWV 528: Andante
Son IV in e, BWV 528: Un poco allegro
Son V in C, BWV 529: Allegro
Son V in C, BWV 529: Largo
Son V in C, BWV 529: Allegro
Son VI in G, BWV 530: Vivace
Son VI in G, BWV 530: Lento
Son VI in G, BWV 530: Allegro

Tracks:

Passacaglia E Tema Fugatum in c, BWV 582
Sechs Chorale von Verschiedener Art (Schubler-Chorale), BWV 645: Wachet auf, ruft uns die Stimme
Sechs Chorale von Verschiedener Art (Schubler-Chorale), BWV 646: Wo soll ich fliehen hin
Sechs Chorale von Verschiedener Art (Schubler-Chorale), BWV 647: Wer nur den lieben Gott la...
Sechs Chorale von Verschiedener Art (Schubler-Chorale), BWV 648: Meine Seele erhebet den Herren
Sechs Chorale von Verschiedener Art (Schubler-Chorale), BWV 649: Ach, bleib' bei uns
Sechs Chorale von Verschiedener Art (Schubler-Chorale), BWV 650: Kommst du nun, Jesu...
Fuge in g, BWV 578
Prld & Fuge in g, BWV 541: Prld
Prld & Fuge in g, BWV 541: Fuge
Choral: Ein' feste Burg ist unser Gott, BWV 720
Prld in G, BWV 568
Adagio, BWV 1027: Adagio
Adagio, BWV 1027: Allegro moderato (trio) (1027a)
Ricercare a 6 (aus Das musikalische Opfer), BWV 1079-5
Prld in a, BWV 569

Amazon.com

Marie-Claire Alain is not only one of the greatest organists alive today, but she stands directly in a what is undoubtedly the world's greatest tradition of organ playing. It was France that first rediscovered and cultivated Bach's organ music, and which in turn stimulated the great works of Franck, Widor, Vierne, and their school. Alain has recorded Bach's complete organ music no less than three times, here on historical organs of Bach's own time. Each disc is planned as a recital that showcases both the music and the instrument. Her performances are simply the last word in style, musicianship, and virtuosity. Magnificent. --David Hurwitz

Customer Reviews:

Complete set CD review of Bach.......2007-05-12

I discovered Bach organ music 40 years ago. I love Bach, everything he wrote. I have 4 complete sets of Bach organ recordings. Marie Claire-Alan is my favorite organist of everyone I have heard. I met Marie and her husband in person after a performance she gave in Chicago. I have 2 complete sets of Bach organ played by Marie. One is on records and the other the new CD set. She is a little older now when she recorded the CD's. The albums have a more youthful sound to them, a little more energy and different registration selection on the organs. I love Marie in her youthful recordings more than these. I love the albums so much I will digitize them and listen to them over the new CD collection. I play the albums on my Linn turntable through McIntosh equipment.

The Definitive Collection of Bach .......2005-09-25

Marie-Claire Alain has recorded Bach's complete organ music 3 times, this set being the second time. She plays quite differently now, but these are some of the best interpretations. Each cd fearures a different organ dating from Bach's time, and all of the booklets are filled with pictures, history, and even the stop registrations for each of the pieces are given. Quite alot of research! If those of you who are new to Bach's organ works, I would recommend starting on a smaller scale, as some of these works can be quite intense to listen to. At any rate, this possibly may go down as one of the famous recordings of the century.

Absolutely wonderful!.......2004-07-27

From this huge box set, it is quite obvious that Bach was a dedicated composer for the organ (and obviously a virtuoso organist for that matter). Bach was a very prominent composer who lived in the Baroque era, and to truely understand his works and their style you must have a general outline of knowledge of the timeframe in which he lived. And so the Baroque era, (1600-1750) was characterized by vastness of proportion, rich counterpoint, great splendor and a highly ornamented melodic line. (One should note that the era abruptly ended after Bach's death which actually shows his importance in it) Some of these pieces are examples of works that require performers at the very highest degree to play them. His works go way beyond the famous Toccata and Fuge in D Minor, and with a "Complete" edition you can listen and hear them all for yourself, hence grasping the full view of his genious. This set is of wonderful value and worth every penny. Unfortunately, the Master's version is not available in a CD store, and so we must indulge upon other's interpretations. This out of the others stands as one of the very best. It is also complementing to the experience to have an instrument of the period (which is so in this set). Bach devoted his entire frame of mind towards the spreading of God's kingdom, therefore one could derive that he felt that by creating enlightening and insightful music, he was doing a lowly service to his God. Overall--this is a fabulous interpretation, and it will deepen one's respect and awe for Johann Sebastian Bach, the greatest organist who ever lived.

Monumental Artistry.......2003-03-08

Although I am partial to the Romantic Organ, particularly in the vein of Widor, Vierne and Rheinberger, it all begins with Bach. And in this case, one could say that it all begins with Marie-Claire Alain and her wonderful interpretations. Alain seems to understand that Bach was above all else a religious composer. Many "complete" works of Bach play short shrift with the liturgical works whereas these are some of the most satisfying of the group.

The sound is pure sonority, almost perfect, and the technical prowess is just awesome. Out of the millions of notes played, I never heard a miscue or slight jiggle. Still, keyboard wizardry is only part of the story. The registration is a work of art in itself. Alain understand the difference between the Baroque and the Modern, the French and the German and the old and the new. Just as she is a "natural" for Widor or Vierne, she also seems to have entered the Bach mind on some of these.

This is a fabulous collection worthy of any serious student of classical music. Nowhere can one derive such satisfaction that listenting to Bach played by Ms. Alain.

A Happy Sacrifice.......2001-06-30

I gladly sacrificed two of the four speakers in my car to this wonderful, wonderful treasure. What more can I say?

Bach 2000: The Complete Bach Edition (Includes Commemorative Book) (Box Set)

Average customer rating:

Bach is priceless
Buy the works you like....
Poor Bach
A Treasure Trove
147 out of 153 ain't bad!

Bach 2000: The Complete Bach Edition (Includes Commemorative Book) (Box Set)
Nikolaus Harnoncourt , Robin Gritton , Giovanni Antonini , Gustav Leonhardt , Ton Koopman , Alice Harnoncourt , and Zehetmair, Thomas
Manufacturer: Teldec
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Minuets | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

Trios | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

Canons | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Fantasies | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Fugues | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Inventions | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Preludes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Suites | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Toccatas | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Scherzo | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Sacred & Religious | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Oratorios | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Cantatas | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Caprices | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Magnificats | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Masses | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Motets | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Oratorios | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Passions | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Psalms | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Classical | Box Sets | Stores | Music

Opera & Vocal | Box Sets | Stores | Music
ASIN: B00001IV8B
Release Date: 1999-09-14

Tracks:

Wie schon leuchtet der Morgenstern
Du Wahrer Gottes und Marien Sohn
Erfuellet, ihr himmlischen goettlichen Flammen
Ein irdscher Glanz, wein leiblich Licht
Unser Mund und Ton der Saiten
Wie Schon Leuchtet Der Morgenstern, BWV 1: Chor: 'Wie Bin Ich Doch So Herzlich Froh' - Wiener Sangerknaben/Chor Viennensis/Hans Gillesberger
Ach Gott, Vom Himmel Sieh Darein, BWV 2: Chor: 'Ach Gott, Vom Himmel Sieh Darein' - Wiener Sangerknaben/Chor Viennensis/Hans Gillesberger
Ach Gott, Vom Himmel Sieh Darein, BWV 2: Recitativo: 'Sie Lehren Eitel Falsche List' - Kurt Equiluz
Ach Gott, Vom Himmel Sieh Darein, BWV 2: Aria: 'Tilg, O Gott, Die Lehren' - Paul Esswood
Ach Gott, Vom Himmel Sieh Darein, BWV 2: Recitativo: 'Die Armen Sind Verstort' - Max Van Egmond
Ach Gott, Vom Himmel Sieh Darein, BWV 2: Aria: 'Durchs Feuer Wird Das Silber Rein' - Kurt Equiluz
Ach Gott, Vom Himmel Sieh Darein, BWV 2: Chor: 'Das Wollst Du, Gott, Bewahren Rein' - Wiener Sangerknaben/Chor Viennensis/Hans Gillesberger
Ach Gott, Wie Manches Herzeleid, BWV 3: Chor: 'Ach Gott, Wie Manches Herzeleid' - Wiener Sangerknaben/Chor Viennensis/Hans Gillesberger
Ach Gott, Wie Manches Herzeleid, BWV 3: Choral Recitativo: 'Wie Schwerlich Lasst Sich Fleisch Und... - Wiener Sangerknaben/Hans Gillesberger/Paul Esswood/Kurt Equiluz/Max Van Egmond...
Ach Gott, Wie Manches Herzeleid, BWV 3: Aria: 'Empfind Ich Hollenangst Und Pein' - Max Van Egmond
Ach Gott, Wie Manches Herzeleid, BWV 3: Recitativo: 'Es Mag Mir Leib Und Geist Verschmachten' - Kurt Equiluz
Ach Gott, Wie Manches Herzeleid, BWV 3: Aria: 'Wenn Sorgen Auf Mich Dringen' - Wiener Sangerknaben/Hans Gillesberger/Paul Esswood
Ach Gott, Wie Manches Herzeleid, BWV 3: Chor: 'Erhalt Mein Herz Im Glauben Rein' - Wiener Sangerknaben/Chor Viennensis/Hans Gillesberger

Tracks:

Ich elender Mensch, wer wird mich erloesen
O Schmerz, o Elend, so mich trifft
Solls ja so sein
Ach lege das Sodom der suendlichen Glieder
Hier aber tut des Heilands Hand
Ich Elender Mensch, Wer Wird Mich Erlosen, BWV 48: Aria: 'Vergibt Mir Jesus Meine Sunden' - Kurt Equiluz
Ich Elender Mensch, Wer Wird Mich Erlosen, BWV 48: Chor: 'Herr Jesu Christ, Einiger Trost' - Wiener Sangerknaben/Chor Viennensis/Hans Gillesberger
Ich Geh Und Suche Mit Verlangen, BWV 49: Sinf - Concentus Musicus Wien/Nikolaus Harnoncourt
Ich Geh Und Suche Mit Verlangen, BWV 49: Aria: 'Ich Geh Und Suche Mit Verlangen' - Ruud Van Der Meer
Ich Geh Und Suche Mit Verlangen, BWV 49: Recitativo Ed Arioso: 'Mein Mahl Ist Zubereit'' - Ruud Van Der Meer/Peter Jelosits
Ich Geh Und Suche Mit Verlangen, BWV 49: Aria: 'Ich Bin Herrlich, Ich Bin Schon' - Peter Jelosits
Ich Geh Und Suche Mit Verlangen, BWV 49: Recitativo: 'Mein Glaube Hat Mich Selbst So Angezogen' - Peter Jelosits/Ruud Van Der Meer
Ich Geh Und Suche Mit Verlangen, BWV 49: Aria (Duetto): 'Dich Hab Ich Je Und Je Geliebet' - Peter Jelosits/Ruud Van Der Meer
Nun Ist Das Heil Und Die Kraft, BWV 50: Chor: 'Nun Ist Das Heil Und Die Kraft' - Wiener Sangerknaben/Chor Viennensis/Hans Gillesberger
Jauchzet Gott In Allen Landen, BWV 51: Aria: 'Jauchzet Gott In Allen Landen!' - Marianne Kweksilber
Jauchzet Gott In Allen Landen, BWV 51: Recitativo: 'Wir Beten Zu Dem Tempel An' - Marianne Kweksilber
Jauchzet Gott In Allen Landen, BWV 51: Aria: 'Hochster, Mache Deine Gute' - Marianne Kweksilber
Jauchzet Gott In Allen Landen, BWV 51: Chor: 'Sei Lob Und Preis Mit Ehren' - Marianne Kweksilber
Jauchzet Gott In Allen Landen, BWV 51: Aria: 'Alleluja!' - Marianne Kweksilber

Tracks:

(Caro) Was Gott tut, das ist wohlgetan
(Alto, Tenore) Was Gott tut, das ist wohlgetan
(Soprano) Was Gott tut, das ist wohlgetan
(Basso) Was Gott tut, das ist wohlgetan
(Alto) Was Gott tut, das ist wohlgetan
Was Gott Tut, Das Ist Wohlgetan, BWV 100: Chor: 'Was Gott Tut, Das Ist Wohlgetan' - Knabenchor Hannover/Heinz Hennig/Collegium Vocale, Gent/Philippe Herreweghe
Nimm Von Uns, Herr, Du Treuer Gott, BWV 101: Chor: 'Nimm Von Uns, Herr, Du Treuer Gott' - Tolzer Knabenchor/Gerhard Schmidt-Gaden
Nimm Von Uns, Herr, Du Treuer Gott, BWV 101: Aria: 'Handle Nicht Nach Deinen Rechten' - Kurt Equiluz
Nimm Von Uns, Herr, Du Treuer Gott, BWV 101: Recitativo-Chor: 'Ach! Herr Gott, Durch Die Treue Dein' - Wilhelm Wiedl
Nimm Von Uns, Herr, Du Treuer Gott, BWV 101: Aria: 'Warum Willst Du So Zornig Sein?' - Philippe Huttenlocher
Nimm Von Uns, Herr, Du Treuer Gott, BWV 101: Recitativo-Chor: 'Die Sund Hat Uns Verderbet Sehr' - Kurt Equiluz
Nimm Von Uns, Herr, Du Treuer Gott, BWV 101: Aria (Duetto): 'Gedenk An Jesu Bittern Tod!' - Wilhelm Wiedl/Paul Esswood
Nimm Von Uns, Herr, Du Treuer Gott, BWV 101: Chor: 'Leit Uns Mit Deiner Rechten Hand' - Tolzer Knabenchor/Gerhard Schmidt-Gaden
Herr, Deine Augen Sehen Nach Dem Glauben, BWV 102, Prima Parte: Chor: 'Herr, Deine Augen Sehen... - Tolzer Knabenchor/Gerhard Schmidt-Gaden
Herr, Deine Augen Sehen Nach Dem Glauben, BWV 102, Prima Parte: Recitativo: 'Wo Ist Das Ebenbild' - Philippe Huttenlocher
Herr, Deine Augen Sehen Nach Dem Glauben, BWV 102, Prima Parte: Aria: 'Weh Der Seele' - Paul Esswood
Herr, Deine Augen Sehen Nach Dem Glauben, BWV 102, Prima Parte: Arioso: 'Verachtest Du Den... - Philippe Huttenlocher
Herr, Deine Augen Sehen Nach Dem Glauben, BWV 102, Seconda Parte: Aria: 'Erschrecke Doch, Du... - Kurt Equiluz
Herr, Deine Augen Sehen Nach Dem Glauben, BWV 102, Seconda Parte: Recitativo: 'Beim Warten Ist... - Paul Esswood
Herr, Deine Augen Sehen Nach Dem Glauben, BWV 102, Seconda Parte: Chor: Heut Lebst Du, Heut... - Tolzer Knabenchor/Gerhard Schmidt-Gaden

Tracks:

Sinfonia
Nach dir, Herr, verlanget mich
Doch bin und bleibe ich vergnuegt
Leite mich in deiner Wahrheit
Zedern muessen von den Winden
Nach Dir, Herr, Verlanget Mich, BWV 150: Chor: 'Meine Augen Sehen Stets Zu Dem Herrn' - Knabenchor Hannover/Heinz Hennig/Collegium Vocale, Gent/Philippe Herreweghe
Nach Dir, Herr, Verlanget Mich, BWV 150: Chor: 'Meine Tage In Dem Leide' - Knabenchor Hannover/Heinz Hennig/Collegium Vocale, Gent/Philippe Herreweghe
Susser Trost, Mein Jesus Kommt, BWV 151: Aria: 'Susser Trost, Mein Jesus Kommt' - Sebastian Hennig
Susser Trost, Mein Jesus Kommt, BWV 151: Recitativo: 'Erfreue Dich, Mein Herz' - Max Van Egmond
Susser Trost, Mein Jesus Kommt, BWV 151: Aria: 'In Jesu Demut Kann Ich Trost' - Paul Esswood
Susser Trost, Mein Jesus Kommt, BWV 151: Recitativo: 'Du Teurer Gottessohn' - Kurt Equiluz
Susser Trost, Mein Jesus Kommt, BWV 151: Chor: 'Heut Schleusst Er Wieder Auf Die Tur' - Knabenchor Hannover/Heinz Hennig/Collegium Vocale, Gent/Philippe Herreweghe
Tritt Auf Die Glaubensbahn, BWV 152: Con - Concentus Musicus Wien/Nikolaus Harnoncourt
Tritt Auf Die Glaubensbahn, BWV 152: Aria: 'Tritt Auf Die Glaubensbahn' - Thomas Hampson
Tritt Auf Die Glaubensbahn, BWV 152: Recitativo: 'Der Heiland Ist Gesetzt' - Thomas Hampson
Tritt Auf Die Glaubensbahn, BWV 152: Aria: 'Stein, Der Uber Alle Schatze' - Christoph Wegmann
Tritt Auf Die Glaubensbahn, BWV 152: Recitativo: 'Es Argre Sich Die Kluge Welt' - Thomas Hampson
Tritt Auf Die Glaubensbahn, BWV 152: Duetto: 'Wie Soll Ich Dich, Liebster Der Seelen, Umfassen?' - Christoph Wegmann/Thomas Hampson
Schau, Lieber Gott, Wie Meine Feind, BWV 153: Chor: 'Schau, Lieber Gott, Wie Meine Feind' - Tolzer Knabenchor//Gerhard Schmidt-Gaden
Schau, Lieber Gott, Wie Meine Feind, BWV 153: Recitativo: 'Mein Liebster Gott' - Stefan Rampf
Schau, Lieber Gott, Wie Meine Feind, BWV 153: Aria: 'Furchte Dich Nicht, Ich Bin Mit Dir' - Thomas Hampson
Schau, Lieber Gott, Wie Meine Feind, BWV 153: Recitativo: 'Du Sprichst Zwar, Lieber Gott' - Kurt Equiluz
Schau, Lieber Gott, Wie Meine Feind, BWV 153: Chor: 'Und Ob Gleich Alle Teufel - Tolzer Knabenchor//Gerhard Schmidt-Gaden
Schau, Lieber Gott, Wie Meine Feind, BWV 153: Aria: 'Sturmt Nur, Sturmt, Ihr Trubsalswetter' - Kurt Equiluz
Schau, Lieber Gott, Wie Meine Feind, BWV 153: Recitativo: 'Getrost! Mein Herz, Erdulde Deinen... - Thomas Hampson
Schau, Lieber Gott, Wie Meine Feind, BWV 153: Aria: 'Soll Ich Meinen Lebeslauf' - Stefan Rampf
Schau, Lieber Gott, Wie Meine Feind, BWV 153: Chor: 'Drum Will Ich, Weil Ich Lebe Noch' - Tolzer Knabenchor//Gerhard Schmidt-Gaden

Tracks:

Die Zeit, die Tag und Jahre macht
Auf, Sterbliche, lasset ein Jauchzen ertoenen
So bald, als dir die Sternen hold
Es streiten, es siegen die kuenftigen Zeiten
Bedenke nur, begluecktes Land
Die Zeit, Die Tag Und Jahre Macht, BWV 134A: Aria: 'Der Zeiten Herr Hat Viel Vergnugte Stunden' - Michael Chance
Die Zeit, Die Tag Und Jahre Macht, BWV 134A: Recitativo: 'Hilf, Hochster, Hilf' - Michael Chance/Paul Agnew
Die Zeit, Die Tag Und Jahre Macht, BWV 134A: Chor: 'Ergetzet Auf Erden' - The Amsterdam Baroque Chor/Ton Koopman
Durchlauchtster Leopold, BWV 173A: Recitativo: 'Durchlauchtster Leopold' - Lisa Larsson
Durchlauchtster Leopold, BWV 173A: Aria: 'Guldner Sonnen Frohe Stunden' - Lisa Larsson
Durchlauchtster Leopold, BWV 173A: Aria: 'Leopolds Vortrefflichkeiten' - Klaus Mertens
Durchlauchtster Leopold, BWV 173A: Aria: 'Unter Seinem Purpursaum' - Lisa Larsson/Klaus Mertens
Durchlauchtster Leopold, BWV 173A: Recitativo: 'Durchlauchtigster, Den Anhalt Vater Nennt' - Lisa Larsson/Klaus Mertens
Durchlauchtster Leopold, BWV 173A: Aria: 'So Schau Des Holden Tages Licht' - Lisa Larsson
Durchlauchtster Leopold, BWV 173A: Aria: 'Dein Name Gleich Der Sonnen Geh' - Klaus Mertens
Durchlauchtster Leopold, BWV 173A: Chor: 'Nimm Auch, Grosser Furst, Uns Auf' - Lisa Larsson/Klaus Mertens

Tracks:

Kyrie eleison
Christe eleison
Kyrie eleison
Gloria in excelsis Deo
Laudamus te
Mass in b, BWV 232: I. Missa: Gloria: Gratias Agimus Tibi - Arnold Schoenberg Chor/Erwin Ortner
Mass in b, BWV 232: I. Missa: Gloria: Domine Deus - Angela Maria Blasi/Kurt Equiluz
Mass in b, BWV 232: I. Missa: Gloria: Qui Tollis - Arnold Schoenberg Chor/Erwin Ortner
Mass in b, BWV 232: I. Missa: Gloria: Qui Sedes - Jadwiga Rappe
Mass in b, BWV 232: I. Missa: Gloria: Quoniam To Solus - Arnold Schoenberg Chor/Erwin Ortner
Mass in b, BWV 232: I. Missa: Gloria: Cum Sancto Spiritu - Arnold Schoenberg Chor/Erwin Ortner

Tracks:

Singet dem Herrn ein neres Lied
Der Geist hilft unser Schwachheit auf
Komm, Jesu, komm
Jesu, meine Freude
Fuerchte dich nicht, ich bin bei dir
Lobet Den Herrn, Alle Heiden, BWV 230 - Stockholm Bach Chor/Anders Ohrwall

Tracks:

Fantasia et Fuga in g BWV 542
Fuga in g BWV 578
Canzona in d BWV 588
Praeludium et Fuga in h BWV 544
Praeludium et Fuga in a BWV 543
Fant in c, BWV 562 - Ton Koopman
Prld Et Fuga in C, BWV 531 - Ton Koopman
Fant in G, BWV 572 - Ton Koopman
Fant in C, BWV 570 - Ton Koopman
Passacaglia in c, BWV 582 - Ton Koopman

Tracks:

Inventio 1 BWV 772
Inventio 2 BWV 773
Inventio 3 BWV 774
Inventio 4 BWV 775
Inventio 5 BWV 776
Inventio 6 in E, BWV 777 - Zuzana Ruzickova
Inventio 7 in e, BWV 778 - Zuzana Ruzickova
Inventio 8 in F, BWV 779 - Zuzana Ruzickova
Inventio 9 in f, BWV 780 - Zuzana Ruzickova
Inventio 10 in G, BWV 781 - Zuzana Ruzickova
Inventio 11 in g, BWV 782 - Zuzana Ruzickova
Inventio 12 in A, BWV 783 - Zuzana Ruzickova
Inventio 13 in a, BWV 784 - Zuzana Ruzickova
Inventio 14 in B flat, BWV 785 - Zuzana Ruzickova
Inventio 15 in b, BWV 786 - Zuzana Ruzickova
Sinf 1 in C, BWV 787 - Zuzana Ruzickova
Sinf 2 in c, BWV 788 - Zuzana Ruzickova
Sinf 3 in D, BWV 789 - Zuzana Ruzickova
Sinf 4 in d, BWV 790 - Zuzana Ruzickova
Sinf 5 in E flat, BWV 791 - Zuzana Ruzickova
Sinf 6 in E, BWV 792 - Zuzana Ruzickova
Sinf 7 in e, BWV 793 - Zuzana Ruzickova
Sinf 8 in F, BWV 794 - Zuzana Ruzickova
Sinf 9 in f, BWV 795 - Zuzana Ruzickova
Sinf 10 in G, BWV 796 - Zuzana Ruzickova
Sinf 11 in g, BWV 797 - Zuzana Ruzickova
Sinf 12 in A, BWV 798 - Zuzana Ruzickova
Sinf 13 in a, BWV 799 - Zuzana Ruzickova
Sinf 14 in B flat, BWV 800 - Zuzana Ruzickova
Sinf 15 in b, BWV 801 - Zuzana Ruzickova

Tracks:

Prelude and Fugue in A minor: Praeludium
Prelude and Fugue in A minor: Fuga
Prelude and Fughetta in E minor: Praeludium
Prelude and Fughetta in E minor: Fuga
Prelude in G major BWV 902a
Fant And Fugue in a, BWV 904: Fant - Zuzana Ruzickova
Fant And Fugue in a, BWV 904: Fuga - Zuzana Ruzickova
Clavier-Buchlein Vor W.F. Bach: Prld in C, BWV 924 - Zuzana Ruzickova
Clavier-Buchlein Vor W.F. Bach: Prld in D, BWV 925 - Zuzana Ruzickova
Clavier-Buchlein Vor W.F. Bach: Prld in d, BWV 926 - Zuzana Ruzickova
Clavier-Buchlein Vor W.F. Bach: Prld in F, BWV 927 - Zuzana Ruzickova
Clavier-Buchlein Vor W.F. Bach: Prld in F, BWV 928 - Zuzana Ruzickova
Clavier-Buchlein Vor W.F. Bach: Prld in g, BWV 930 - Zuzana Ruzickova
Clavier-Buchlein Vor W.F. Bach: Prld in a, BWV 931 - Zuzana Ruzickova
Prld in E, BWV 937 - Zuzana Ruzickova
Prld in C, BWV 939 - Zuzana Ruzickova
Prld in d, BWV 940 - Zuzana Ruzickova
Applicatio in C, BWV 994 - Zuzana Ruzickova

Tracks:

Suite in G minor BWV 995: Prelude
Suite in G minor BWV 995: Allemande
Suite in G minor BWV 995: Courante
Suite in G minor BWV 995: Sarabande
Suite in G minor BWV 995: Gavotte I - Gavotte II en Rondeau
Ste in g, BWV 995: Gigue - Luca Pianca
Ste in e, BWV 996: Prld (Passagio-Presto) - Michele Barchi
Ste in e, BWV 996: Allemande - Michele Barchi
Ste in e, BWV 996: Courante - Michele Barchi
Ste in e, BWV 996: Sarabande - Michele Barchi
Ste in e, BWV 996: Bourree - Michele Barchi
Ste in e, BWV 996: Gigue - Michele Barchi
Ste in c, BWV 997: Prld - Michele Barchi/Luca Pianca
Ste in c, BWV 997: Fuga - Michele Barchi/Luca Pianca
Ste in c, BWV 997: Sarabande - Michele Barchi/Luca Pianca
Ste in c, BWV 997: Gigue-Double - Michele Barchi/Luca Pianca

Tracks:

Concerto for two violins BWV 1043: Vivace
Concerto for two violins BWV 1043: Largo, ma non tanto
Concerto for two violins BWV 1043: Allegro
Concerto BWV 1042: Allegro
Concerto BWV 1042: Adagio
Con in E, BWV 1042: Allegro Assai - Alice Harnoncourt
Con in a, BWV 1041: Allegro - Alice Harnoncourt
Con in a, BWV 1041: Andante - Alice Harnoncourt
Con in a, BWV 1041: Allegro Assai - Alice Harnoncourt
Con in g, BWV 1056R: (Allegro) - Alice Harnoncourt
Con in g, BWV 1056R: Largo - Alice Harnoncourt
Con in g, BWV 1056R: Presto - Alice Harnoncourt
Con in g, BWV 1060R: Allegro - Jurg Schaeftlein/Alice Harnoncourt
Con in g, BWV 1060R: Adagio - Jurg Schaeftlein/Alice Harnoncourt
Con in g, BWV 1060R: Allegro - Jurg Schaeftlein/Alice Harnoncourt

Amazon.com

The Bach renaissance--which began in earnest in the early 19th century thanks to the efforts of Felix Mendelssohn and others--inspired an endeavor of far-reaching significance. It led to the founding of the Bach Society in 1850, with the goal of gathering and publishing the composer's complete works, and thus set into motion one of the great projects of musical scholarship. That effort has continued and been refined throughout the 20th century, ultimately influencing not only our perception of how to perform early music but fundamental ideas of musical history, evolution, and reception as well.

Teldec's mammoth Bach 2000 box set represents a kind of culmination of that original attempt to come to terms with Johann Sebastian Bach's unparalleled legacy. This set brings together performances recorded over the last several decades--a small percentage of the recordings are previously unreleased--of all the extant works determined by modern scholarship to be authentic. There are also some pieces the authorship of which is still in question and a few now deemed "inauthentic" but familiarly associated with the composer. Bach was a prodigious reviser of his compositions, and alternate versions of a particular work have been included "where the changes seemed sufficiently important," such as the glorious Magnificat. No doubt manuscripts will continue to be unearthed here and there in various archives (Bach 2000 contains, for example, the "Neumeister chorales," which were rediscovered in 1984), but the set does not represent the many fragments of music that consist of just a few bars; however, there are some reconstructions of lost concertos (such as one for three violins reconstructed by Christopher Hogwood from an extant concerto for harpsichords).

Of course a truly comprehensive recorded edition of every note Bach wrote remains a utopian impossibility--about one-third of his cantatas, for example, have not survived. Even so, the dimensions of Bach 2000 are staggering. With its 12 boxes comprising 153 CDs, the set can be compressed into fewer boxes to save shelf space yet is still about ten times as long as the Ring cycle. (It should be noted that the packaging--using thin cardboard sleeves for the CDs--is distinctively unattractive.) That adds up to just under 160 hours of music--but a lifetime of discovery. Each box (grouped according to genre) contains a booklet with excellent notes on individual works and--for all the choral works--texts and translations. Tracking indexes are useful and thorough. Also included is a profusely illustrated hardbound volume of 24 Inventions, in which journalist Wolfgang Sandberger uses the composer's biography as a peg for some enigmatic and fascinating musings on the meaning of Bach today.

The presiding philosophy behind this project and its approach to musical interpretation can be largely ascribed to Nikolaus Harnoncourt, a true musical pioneer and galvanizing force of the "period performance" movement. Harnoncourt's epoch-making recordings of the sacred cantatas (using, for instance, boy sopranos and choristers according to the practice in Bach's time) with the Concentus musicus Wien and colleague Gustav Leonhardt comprise the first four volumes here (those who already own them can turn to the Bach 2000 Light edition, which contains everything sans the cantatas). These recordings--which were not remastered for this set--have long been controversial and are notably uneven, embracing some magnificent accounts as well as others that lack fire and seem clearly underrehearsed. But Harnoncourt is one of the most fascinating conductors of our era, and his interpretations amply bear out his assertion: "I have never felt that Bach worked in a routine manner, that he repeated himself in his works." Harnoncourt--who has articulated many of his ideas in his book The Musical Dialogue--displays his gifts as a cellist in a remarkably probing performance of the Cello Suites (originally recorded in 1965) and in his concertizing for a number of chamber works. For the St. Matthew Passion, you get Harnoncourt's groundbreaking earlier account from 1970, while his 1986 recording of the sublime B Minor Mass is also represented here (the St. John Passion included is Harnoncourt's 1995 acount).

Other artists included are colleague Gustav Leonhardt, whose thoughtful if occasionally dry harpsichord artistry is heard in the Goldberg Variations as well as in the concertos and chamber music. The harpsichord is in fact used throughout in preference to piano for the keyboard works. Ton Koopman (himself the conductor of an ongoing complete cantata series and of the Easter Oratorio included here) performs the organ works, including some newly recorded offerings, while Il Giardino Armonico's well-known high-energy account represents the Brandenburg Concertos. Violinist Thomas Zehetmair is exceptionally compelling in th