Composer: Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach
Performers: Miklós Spányi (tangent piano), Concerto Armonico, Péter Szüts
Record Label: BIS
Record Number: CD-914
Time: 69:05
The world of classical music continues to marvel at the genius of Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach, and this volume 10 of his Complete Keyboard Concertos, produced by BIS Records, is no exception. Miklós Spányi, a notable interpreter of C.P.E. Bach’s works, takes to the tangent piano, with the taut direction of Péter Szüts leading Concerto Armonico. Recorded in 1997, this disk includes three distinct works— Concerto in G major H. 419, Sonatina in F major H. 452, and Concerto in B flat major H. 447—altogether clocking in at just over an hour’s runtime.
The Concerto in G major H. 419 opens the album with whimsical musical paintbrushes, instantly capturing the quintessential elements of C.P.E. Bach’s compositional craft. Spányi’s evident intuitiveness for Bach’s galant style is unwavering, and his execution on the tangent piano brings a commendable depth to the piece. The music is vivacious and marked by unexpected turns, with the orchestra providing the stalwart stage upon which Spányi dances his nimble fingerwork.
The Sonatina in F major H. 452 is a testament to C.P.E. Bach’s experimental daringness. This particular piece, with its relatively long runtime, presents challenging rhythmic complexity, and the performers rise to meet it with aplomb. Spányi’s phrasing here is admirable, threading listeners through what could easily become a convoluted piece with utter clarity. The interplay between Spányi and Concerto Armonico is electric, weaving a rich musical tapestry that is both complex and exciting.
Closing the album is the Concerto in B flat major H. 447, where a playful sense of vigour is maintained. Here the intricate tapestry of sustained bass lines and lively melodies displays a clear understanding of Bach’s unique sense of harmony and counterpoint. Spányi, with his confident yet soft touch, delicately navigates Bach’s sometimes capricious, other times profound, always beautiful musical landscape.
The production quality of the album is high, capturing the nuances of every note with precision – from quiet arpeggios to a glorious ensemble fortissimo. BIS CD-914 preserves the tangibility of the live performance, transporting listeners directly to the concert hall.
In conclusion, Volume 10 of C.P.E. Bach’s Complete Keyboard Concertos is an effective portal into the imaginative and versatile world of one of the greatest keyboard composers of the eighteenth century. The performances by Miklós Spányi and the Concerto Armonico under the baton of Péter Szüts are indeed commendable, providing an insightful and stimulating interpretation of Bach’s much-adored works. This album is a welcome addition for any classical music enthusiast, promising an hour of absorbing and intricate melody.
