Search - Johann Sebastian Bach, Wolfgang Rubsam :: Bach: English Suites Nos. 1-3

BACH'S "ENGLISH SUITES" FINALLY MADE "HUMAN"!

Melvyn M. Sobel | Freeport (Long Island), New York | 06/23/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Bach's six English Suites have always, if you'll pardon the mixed metaphor, played second fiddle to his more popular French Suites, also a set of six, the former appearing seemingly dour and academic, while the latter were upbeat and ebullient.



Well, with an exponent like Rubsam at the piano, this misconception can certainly be laid to rest. His way with Bach is magical, gentle, completely inside the composer. He never rushes; he coaxes the music lovingly, and there is a wonderful improvisatory quality about his playing. This is NOT academic Bach! This is a Bach who wraps us in the music of eternity, comforts us, softens the edges of a harsh world. The breadth and depth of Rubsam's vision in these English Suites is one I embrace wholeheartedly. In his hands, this music is a balm and every bit the equal, if not the superior, of the two sets of suites. Compliments to Naxos for giving Mr. Rubsam a full, natural piano sound, embued with warmth, and happily devoid of the ever-popular ambience, and for an exceptional CD timing.



Here is Bach made human, a Bach ruminating, and Mr. Rubsam has allowed us the very rare priviledge of looking over Johann's shoulder.



[Running time: 79:09]"