Bach, J S: Mass in A major, BWV234

“Most persuasive from these Parisian musicians is the vitality of the choral movements of both Masses and the richly flavoured instrumental accompaniment, directed by Raphaël Pichon with warmth and an unusual sensitivity to the periodic structure of each movement.” Gramophone Magazine, December 2008

“Koopman and splendid soloists in a first-rate start to an important series.” Gramophone Magazine, August 2008

“Koopman achieves a truly astonishing clarity and focus from 16 voices… He's superbly served, too, by his instrumentalists, horns flying effortlessly through uplifting strands of figures in the thrilling opening to BWV233's Gloria… it's the now-familiar 'Koopman spirit', that irrepressible exuberance and imagination, which confirms his latest venture as my Magnificent benchmark.” BBC Music Magazine, June 2008 *****

“this is a compelling and instinctive new Bach recording.” Gramophone Magazine, September 2007

“Pierlot has already proved to be a sensitive and stylish Bach interpreter and in this recording his musicians illuminate Bach's textures with elegant phrasing and a pleasing balance between voices and instruments.” BBC Music Magazine, October 2007 ****

“Whatever one's view on single-voiced Bach, the performances here are among the most persuasive in this medium. Francis Jacob's organ playing is both searchingly fluid and articulated. With the odd misgiving, this is a compelling and instinctive new Bach recording.” Gramophone Magazine, September 2007

“Konrad Junghänel brings finesse and clarity to the music, but there is also plenty of excitement… Cantus Cölln's unity of approach between voices and instruments is outstanding.” BBC Music Magazine, October 2008

“Konrad Junghänel and his musicians incline towards small forces with only two voices for each of the four vocal strands and a commensurately lean string ensemble. The resulting translucency and butterfly-light articulation are unmatched by any competing vision.” BBC Music Magazine, Proms 2007 *****