That the six keyboard partitas of
J.S. Bach were his first published works for solo keyboard only adds clout to
Bach's position as one of the most remarkable composers of all time. While there is some evidence indicating that these works were originally conceived as pieces for middle-class amateurs, their high degree of technical difficulty would seem to indicate that
Bach (thankfully) missed his mark. Performances and recordings of the six partitas abound and are dutifully scrutinized. Harpsichordist
Nicholas Parle, one of the only winners of the Bruges International Harpsichord Competition, puts forth a highly compelling, convincing performance on this three-disc ABC Classics set. For listeners who prefer a more metered, staid interpretation of each suites introductory movement,
Parle may raise some eyebrows. He frequently pushes the envelope on the amount of rhythmic and tempo fluctuation can be tolerated. The Praeludium of the First Partita, for example, finds many elongated beats that, while startling and even unsettling at first, actually bring a great deal of fluidity and mercurialness to the music. The dance movements are similarly spontaneous, but maintain sufficient evenness to remind listeners that they are dance movements, indeed. The overall sound quality of the recording is exceptionally good, with
Parle's harpsichord sounding full, powerful, and vividly colorful.