J.S. Bach- Magnificat

Product description Used CD Amazon.com With various record labels compiling complete works to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the death of Bach, EMI's more accessible approach is this luxurious anthology of the Baroque master's sacred music. Over two and a half hours, this program encompasses the grand scale of the Magnificat in D (BWV 243) and Missa Brevis in A (BWV 234). Between these are scared cantatas, the very popular choral Wachet auf, ruft uns die Stimme (BWV 140) contrasting with sensitive solo vocal writing in Weinen, Klagen, Sorgen, Zagen (BWV 12); motets; arias; and an organ prelude and fugue. It's a well-balanced program, covering every aspect of Bach's church music except the Passions. The interesting booklet recounts 's long involvement with the music of Bach, while the are thoroughly versed in this repertoire. The two ensembles produce a glorious sound. The soloists are of the very highest caliber, with Ian Bostridge, Michael Chance, Michael George, Susan Gritton, and Lisa Milne bringing great humanity to this incomparable music. Magnificat's uncompromising quality will satisfy the serious collector while providing a thoroughly rewarding introduction to Bach's great sacred music for a wider audience. --Gary S. Dalkin