Barbara Harbach's album, "J.S. Bach: The Art of Fugue, BWV 1080; Pachelbel: Canon and Organ Music," is a captivating journey through the intricate and timeless compositions of Johann Sebastian Bach and Johann Pachelbel. Released on March 11, 2014, under the MSR Classics label, this album spans an impressive 2 hours and 28 minutes, offering a rich and immersive listening experience.
The album opens with Bach's monumental "The Art of Fugue," BWV 1080, a collection of 14 contrapuncti and additional fugal elaborations that showcase Bach's unparalleled mastery of counterpoint and fugal writing. Each contrapunctus is a testament to Bach's ingenuity and creativity, with Harbach's performance bringing out the subtle nuances and complexities of these masterpieces.
Following the "Art of Fugue," the album transitions to Pachelbel's iconic "Canon in D," expertly arranged by S. Drummond Wolff, and a selection of Bach's organ music. This includes a variety of chorale preludes from different parts of the liturgical year, each one a gem of Baroque organ composition. Harbach's interpretations are both technically impressive and deeply expressive, capturing the spiritual and emotional depth of these pieces.
The album also features a rendition of the "Chaconne in F" and "Chaconne in D," demonstrating Harbach's versatility and skill as an organist. Her performance is marked by a keen sense of phrasing and dynamics, bringing a fresh perspective to these well-known works.
Throughout the album, Barbara Harbach's artistry shines, offering listeners a profound and engaging exploration of these timeless compositions. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.
Vinylscout