Recording of the Month

JS Bach French Suites

BRAHMS

Handel Variations; Two Rhapsodies, Op. 79; Piano Pieces, Opp. 118 & 119 Murray Perahia (piano)

Sony 88697727252 78:37 mins

‘Perahia’s long experience with Bach’s keyboard works gives him a natural point of entry to the Handel Variations.

He takes quite fast tempos that nevertheless sound so inevitable that the work seems to unfold in one majestic breath.’

February 2011

BEETHOVEN

Piano Sonatas, Op. 14 Nos 1 & 2;

Op. 26; Op. 28

Murray Perahia (piano)

Sony 88697326462 70:58 mins

‘It’s been a while since Murray Perahia recorded Beethoven. The wait has been well worthwhile. A masterly recital, and one whose undemonstrative performances enable the music to speak for itself most eloquently.’

January 2009

JS BACH

Goldberg Variations

Murray Perahia (piano)

Sony SK 89243 73:28 mins

‘Murray Perahia is one of our finest Bach pianists, as his recent recordings of the English Suites confirm. His Goldbergs

flow mellifluously with fine linear clarity. This is warm-hearted and spirited playing.’ July 2007