Search - Johann Sebastian Bach :: Bach: Complete Lute Suites

This CD is wonderful! What a thrill!!

07/13/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I've read that Sharon Isbin studied for 10 years with the greatest Bach scholar and keyboard artist of our time, Rosalyn Tureck, with whom she created and published the editions recorded in this CD. It's no wonder her Bach performances are so remarkable! Their collaborative editions are based on original manuscripts from Bach's time and follow closely the tradition of Baroque performance practices, including the composer's own embellishments with elaboration in repeats, a component astonishingly and neglectfully omitted in other guitar recordings! I can easily understand why this recording is rightfully acknowledged to be the landmark in the world of Bach performance on guitar. It reaches a depth and scholarship untouched by any previous guitar recording of Bach I've heard (and I've heard them all). I'd have to say Isbin's music bring Bach to life better than all the others. She portrays a brilliant synthesis of scholarship and heart, knowledge and expression, structure and nuance. This is the highest standard you'll hear. In addition to the amazing and creative ornamentation, I was very struck by Isbin's beautiful phrasing, striking timbral and dynamic contrasts, clarity of lines...breathtaking virtuosity.It is no surprise that this recording has received so many awards and is lauded in the world of Bach performance as a model. Once you hear Bach in the hands of Sharon Isbin, you'll never be satisfied by anything less. So here's my humble opinion: Run, don't walk, to get this one!The best 'test' is to use your own ears and hear Isbin's playing. I'm sure J.S. himself would heartily agree - Isbin takes Bach into the realm of the ethereal, where he and she both belong."

Original, authentic and professional

12/01/1999

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This performance is unlike any other guitar rendition of the Bach Lute suites you will have heard before. Listening to the music you would be forgiven for thinking that you were back in the eighteenth century and listening to an original rendition by Bach himself. The most outstanding aspect of this recording is the performers interesting interpretation and implementation of ornamentation. I have had this recording for about 5 years - it is still my favourite and most often played cd."

Excellent Choice

Angela M. King | MD | 07/10/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This is one of Sharon Isbin best CDs. I highly recommend this album to anyone wanting a true classical album with such style and grace as only Ms. Isbin can deliver. Excellent!"