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J S BACH: The Works for Organ Volume 11. Preludes and Fugues, Toccatas, Chorale Preludes  Kevin Bowyer at the Marcussen organ of Sct. Hans Kirke Odense, Denmark. Nimbus NI5606/7 113m DDD.

 


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Kevin Bowyer and Christopher Herrick are continuously distinguishing themselves in concurrent series' of Bach's complete organ music in the run up to the much hyped Bach 250th anniversary year. If both have sumptuous recordings and stupendous documentation, the approach is markedly more different. Nimbus are simpler and more prosaic in their presentation with Bowyer proving a distinctive but ultimately uninspiring interpreter.

Still this two-disc set is welcome for restoring some rarely heard works to the repertoire. Bowyer's dashing view of the mammoth 'Wedge' Prelude and Fugue is suitably entertaining although some rushed notes at the end rob the work of imposing grandeur. Things improve markedly in the short Fuga sopra il Magnificat which is winningly done whilst the borous raucusoness of the canonic Variations, BWV 769 are impressive for their stupendous mastery and nobility.

It was also highly satisfying to listen to Bowyer's virtuoso display in the Prelude and Fugue in C minor, a sure-fire winner and an excellent conclusion to the first disc. The Toccata in C prefaces the second disc and here I was enthused and excited by the sound of the Danish organ, splendidly alive in the rolling notes and some fine sounds from the reeds. Bowyer follows this long work with a host of short pieces of which one may single out the delightful Fughetta BWV 702 and the Prelude and Fugue, both in C which Bowyer dispatches with ruthless efficiency.

The various Chorale preludes that intersperse the rest of the collection are also beautifully played, although they can sound a bit tedious when heard out of context. Bowyer brings this collection to an end with a forceful Toccata in E minor, splendidly executed and displaying several virtuoso effects that confirm this organists status as one of the finest Bach interpreters around. Those who have been collecting this magnificent series will not hesitate although I would also have Herrick alongside me when he comes to record these works.

Kevin Bowyer's copious and informative notes are another major addition to the Bach organ canon and should be an essential part of any self-respecting organist's collection. Indeed I would go as far as saying that these writings should appear in a separate volume such is their wisdom and understanding. Nimbus have secured a bold, rich and fathomable sound from the Marcussen organ which is obviously tailor made for Bach. The beautiful stained glass reproductions on the front cover also make this series eminently collectable. Volume 12 please!

Reviewer

Gerald Fenech

Performance:

Sound:

Reviewer

Gerald Fenech

Performance:

Sound:



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