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Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Baroque music with Henk Bouman's "German Chamber Music Before Bach," released on October 26, 2018, under the prestigious Deutsche Grammophon label. This album is a captivating journey through the intricate and elegant compositions that paved the way for the masterworks of Johann Sebastian Bach.
Henk Bouman, a renowned interpreter of early music, brings to life a collection of sonatas, suites, and canons by German composers of the 17th and early 18th centuries. The album spans a variety of forms and moods, from the stately elegance of the sonatas to the lively dances of the suites. Each piece is a testament to the craftsmanship and innovation of the period, showcasing the development of musical language and structure that would influence Bach and his contemporaries.
The album opens with a Sonata in A minor, its Adagio introducing a sense of solemnity and introspection, followed by the lively Allegro and the intricate Largo/Presto/Adagio/Allegro. Bouman's nuanced performance highlights the contrapuntal complexity and expressive depth of these works. The Sonata in B-Flat Major offers a contrast with its Ciaccona, a form that would later inspire Bach's own famous variations.
One of the highlights of the album is the Sonata "La guerra" in A Major, a programmatic work that depicts the turmoil and eventual resolution of battle. Bouman's sensitive playing brings out the dramatic narrative, from the Adagio con una dolce maniera to the fiery La Guerra cosí nominata di sua maestà.
The album also includes a Partie (Suite) in G Major, a collection of dances that showcase the virtuosity and elegance of the period. The Canon and Gigue in D Major conclude the album on a lively and engaging note, demonstrating the intricate interplay of voices that characterizes the music of this era.
With a total duration of 1 hour and 6 minutes, "German Chamber Music Before Bach" is a comprehensive exploration of the rich musical heritage that preceded Bach's monumental contributions. Henk Bouman's masterful performances bring these works to life, offering a glimpse into the world of German Baroque music and its enduring influence on the classical canon.