Audio CD review:
Johann Sebastian Bach, Paul O'Dette - Bach: Lute Works, Vol. 1

Johann Sebastian Bach, Paul O'Dette - Bach: Lute Works, Vol. 1

Band: Johann Sebastian Bach, Paul O'Dette Title: Bach: Lute Works, Vol. 1 Rating: Release Date: 14 August, 2007 Media: Audio CD Tracks: 1: I. Prelude - Tres Vite 2: II. Allemande 3: III. Courante 4: IV. Sarabande 5: V. Gavotte I & II En Rondeaux 6: VI. Gigue 7: I. Prelude 8: II. Loure 9: III. Gavotte En Rondeaux 10: IV. Minuet I & II 11: V. Bouree 12: VI. Gigue 13: I. Adagio 14: II. Fuga - Allegro 15: III. Siciliana 16: IV. Presto

Editoral Review Invariably re-arranged from other instruments (one piece here was originally for cello, the other two for violin), they are notated in such a way that they would have been unplayable on a typical 18th-century instrument; therefore, Bach must have (or may have) presumed they would be transposed. Playing Bach's works for lute is always an interesting proposition. At any rate, Paul O'Dette's new recording of some of the works (called "Volume I") is a ravishing document – elegant, lovely, both easy on the ear and food for thought. These are not pieces of 18th-century wallpaper. The Fugue in the Sonata in G minor, originally for violin, has to be played more slowly, but we gain clarity, with each note articulated, and it is played with golden tone. It's like the workings of a superb Swiss watch. The Dance movements that make up the Partita in (originally) E major are simply charming and actually seem like dances –- the Lute makes them seem more "popular. " The recording is both warm and crystal-clear. Highly recommended. --Robert Levine .. You can see a complete list of all Johann Sebastian Bach, Paul O'Dette discography, or go back to the Johann Sebastian Bach, Paul O'Dette tabs