Bach, J.S. / Bach, C.P.E.: Oboe Concertos

Heinz Holliger, a renowned oboist and composer, presents a captivating collection of oboe concertos by Johann Sebastian Bach and Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach in this 1998 release. The album, titled "Bach, J.S. / Bach, C.P.E.: Oboe Concertos," is a testament to Holliger's exceptional technical prowess and artistic versatility. The disc features a mix of well-known and lesser-known works, showcasing the oboe's expressive range and Holliger's mastery of the instrument.

The album opens with a reconstructed concerto for oboe d'amore, strings, and continuo in D Major, BWV 1053R, attributed to J.S. Bach. This is followed by a sinfonia from Bach's cantata "Ich steh mit einem Fuß im Grabe," BWV 156, and a canonic trio in F, BWV 1040. The second half of the album is dedicated to C.P.E. Bach's oboe concertos in E flat, Wq. 165, and B flat, Wq. 164. Each concerto is a journey through contrasting movements, from lively allegros to introspective adagios, demonstrating the oboe's dynamic capabilities.

Holliger's playing is marked by superb technical control and a pleasing variety of articulation, as noted by critics. The album, released under the Decca Music Group Ltd. label, spans a duration of 1 hour and 3 minutes, offering a comprehensive exploration of the oboe's role in the Baroque era. This release is a valuable addition to any classical music enthusiast's collection, highlighting the enduring appeal of Bach's compositions and Holliger's virtuosic interpretations.