Classical Editor: Rob Barnett                               Music Webmaster Len Mullenger: Len@musicweb-international.com


BACH and the French Clavecinists
.
GASPARD DE LA ROUX
Pieces in F from Pieces de Clavecin 1705
LOUIS MARCHAND
Pieces in D minor from Pieces de Clavecin 1669
J. S. BACH Suite in A minor with Prelude (English Suite no. 2)
Andrew Appel (harpsichord)
ASV Quicksilva CDQS 6247 (DDD) (63.43)
Crotchet

This is a very interesting disc but, perhaps, for the wrong reasons.

Its interest is in its historical music and some excellent playing from Andrew Appel which I thoroughly enjoyed. His playing of this music is exciting which, when you consider must of the music is sedate, is a seeming paradox. He has great energy and verve and avoids all the fussiness that one sadly associates with early music. I really do like his style and that is some accolade when I have to admit that this music is not that interesting.

Modem music is severely criticised for being too much the same. That can be said of early music although I have to say it is more rewarding to play that listen to. The music is all much of a muchness and the only piece in this collection of 23 pieces that stands out as really noteworthy is the second Bouree in the Bach.

This is music of a mannered culture. It lacks spontaneity and the composers are trammelled by fashion. Even if you have not heard these pieces before there is a real sense of deja vu.

Nonetheless, my sincere compliments to ASV and to a very fine harpsichordist but can we hear him in some more worthwhile and durable music.. ..please?

David Wright

Performances

Recording




Return to Index

Reviews from previous months


You can purchase CDs, tickets and musician's accessories and Save around 22% with these retailers:
BlackStar.co.uk - The UK's Biggest Video Store Concert and Show tickets
Ticketlinks
Musicians accessories
Click here to visit piedog.com