Piano Recital: Glemser, Bernd - Bach, J.S. / Shostakovich, D.

Immerse yourself in the intricate world of classical piano mastery with Bernd Glemser's 2009 album, a captivating collection of preludes and fugues by two titans of classical music: Johann Sebastian Bach and Dmitri Shostakovich. This album, released under the Oehms Classics label, offers a unique blend of Baroque elegance and 20th-century sophistication, showcasing Glemser's exceptional technical prowess and artistic sensitivity.

The album opens with selections from Bach's iconic "The Well-Tempered Clavier," Book 1, featuring Prelude No. 15 in G Major and Fugue No. 15 in G Major, BWV 860. Glemser's interpretation brings a fresh perspective to these timeless pieces, highlighting their structural brilliance and melodic richness. The album continues with a selection of preludes and fugues from Shostakovich's Op. 87, including the haunting Prelude No. 4 in E Minor and the intricate Fugue No. 4 in E Minor. Glemser's nuanced playing captures the depth and complexity of Shostakovich's compositions, offering a profound listening experience.

The second half of the album delves deeper into Bach's "The Well-Tempered Clavier," Book 2, with performances of Prelude No. 18 in G-Sharp Minor and Fugue No. 18 in G-Sharp Minor, BWV 887, among others. Glemser's ability to navigate the intricate counterpoint and harmonic language of Bach's music is truly remarkable. The album concludes with a powerful rendition of Shostakovich's Prelude No. 22 in B-Flat Minor and Fugue No. 22 in B-Flat Minor, Op. 87, showcasing Glemser's dynamic range and expressive depth.

With a total duration of 1 hour and 1 minute, this album is a testament to Glemser's artistry and his deep understanding of these masterpieces. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a rich and rewarding exploration of the prelude and fugue form, as interpreted by two of history's greatest composers and performed by one of today's most accomplished pianists.