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CD Review
Johann Sebastian Bach
Clavierubung III
- Clavierubung III
- Partite diverse sopra Sei gegrusset, BWV 768
David Ponsford, organ
Guild GMCD7262/3 123m DDD
Bach's 'Clavierubung III' is one of the monuments of organ literature and has received a number of fine recordings by established organists over the years.
This latest Guild offering features the scholarly David Ponsford turning out a pretty impeccable performance. The work is based on Lutheran Church texts and lasts around 75 minutes in all with a monumental fugue (5-part) that is a popular piece on its own.
Personally, I still prefer Christopher Herrick in this great work as his Gabler Organ in Switzerland is slightly more attuned to the task than the rather modern sounding Edinburgh Greyfriars. Still, that could be a matter of personal taste and I guess you take your pick accordingly!
Ponsford also includes the equally monumental Partita BWV768 and gives a fine interpretation of this glorious work. I haven't heard alternatives except Walcha and Hurford (DG and Decca) who are only available in complete cycles so Bachians who want this work alone will also enjoy the coupling.
Guild's recording is crisp and very immediate with fine detailed notes. I await further organ CDs from this source with interest.
Copyright © 2003, Gerald Fenech
