Bach, J S: Partita No. 1 in B flat major, BWV825

Little would be gained by describing the exceptional standing of a pianist like Rudolf Buchbinder, who has consistently confirmed his command of his instrument over a period of several decades. Buchbinder brings to these works an expert's true grasp of style, a sovereign technique and an unerring ability to find his way through the fashionable manifestations of 'historically correct' performing practice. Central to this recital in the Großes Festspielhaus was the 'Appassionata' Sonata, but his readings of Johann Sebastian's English Suite and Schumann reveal no less skill and thoughtfulness.

When first published these Partitas were highly criticized. Some thought them to difficult to play but those musicians who did manage to overcome the technical difficulties grew to admire them and so promote these now very familiar compositions. French harpsichordist Pascal Dubreuil overcomes all the demands Bach has set for the harpsichordist and manages to sets a new benchmark in the interpretation of this oeuvre.