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Sun, 12 Dec 1999 15:58:46 PST |
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I had reported very favorably on Gulda's WTC 2nd Book and indicated I'd
be buying Book l. I'm now enjoying Book 1 even more than Book 2. I think
Gulda shows a little more variety of pacing and mood in Book 1.
Although Gulda continues his command of momentum, there is a particular
prelude (in c minor) where he gives us the slowest pacing I've ever heard.
This prelude is usually done with great speed which tends to enhance its
demonic qualities. Gulda's perverse pace might lead one to assume that he
turns this thrilling prelude to mush. Being a superb pianist and
interpreter, he does no such thing. Instead, his emphasis on the bass line
is rock solid and you can almost feel those demons flowing through your
blood stream. One sure sign of a great performing artist is the ability to
turn a work on its head and come out the other side with something as good
or better than the original. Richter easily comes to mind in this regard,
and Gulda, at least in Bach, has this ability.
You can pick up both Books at mid-price and know that you're getting some
very fine distinctive Bach.
Don Satz
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