Bach, J.S.: Organ Masterworks

Japanese organist Kei Koito pursues her collaboration with Claves Records by laying the second stone of a cycle dedicated to masterpieces by the Cantor of Saint-Thomas. Recorded on the organ of Dresden Cathedral (formerly Hofkirche); she presents an anthology of pieces selected with utmost care; as always.

The grand Toccata and Fugue in D Minor BWV 565 - undoubtedly Bach's most famous work - opens the recording. This is followed by three Chorales for Advent time; written on the well-known hymn «Nun komm' der Heiden Heiland»: pages found in the collection left by the musician on his work table at the time of his death.

The Fantasy in C Minor BWV 562 occupies the central part of the CD; going back both to the French tradition (through its theme and ornamentation) and to the great German polyphony school (through its monumental five-part Ricercar). France - for whom Bach had the greatest of admiration - is also featured in the following work: the Overture in B Minor BWV 831; a transcription by Kei Koito herself of a work originally for harpsichord - an art in which she excels. Next on the programme are a "triptych"; which may or may not have been conceived as such by Bach (there is no signature to prove authenticity); and the Fantasy and Fugue in G Minor BWV 542; composed to dazzle all of Hamburg when Bach applied for the post of organist at Saint James's church - for which he was unanimously nominated but refused to buy the duty; preferring to remain in Coethen.

The CD ends on two pieces bathed in light: the opening Sonatina of Cantata 106 (known as "Actus Tragicus"); transcribed for the organ by Alexandre Guilmant; and the Italian hymn «In dir ist Freude» BWV 615.