A very likeable lesson in Bach
Modern symphony orchestra the Leipzig Gewandhaus teach us in the most enjoyable way that there's more than way to play Bach
Composer: Bach
Repertoire: Brandenburgische Konzerte
Artists: Gewandhausorchester/Riccardo Chailly
Rating: 4.5/5
Genre: Orchestral
Label: Decca 478 2191
The Leipzig Gewandhaus teaches a valuable lesson here in how there’s more than one way to play Bach. Unsurprisingly for a modern symphony orchestra, its sound is slightly fuller and more smoothly honed than that of its period-instrument rivals, and tempi are brisk. However, that’s no complaint. These players not only understand but also revel in this music; it’s obvious in the way they carry and shape a line of musical thought, in their dance-like lightness and in their convincing depictions of every emotion from exuberance to haunting uncertainty. If only all lessons were as enjoyable as this genuinely uplifting listen.
