Complete Partitas for Harpsichord
The Partitas were among the very few compositions that Bach himself published--by subscription at his own expense. Each one appeared alone over several years, and then finally as a complete set of six. A partita is exactly the same thing as a suite, simply a collection of stylized dance pieces often preceded by an overture or prelude. Because Bach saw them into print, it is obvious that he regarded them as something exceptional, and they are widely regarded as the finest keyboard suites ever composed. Blandine Verlet is a spectacular artist whose name deserves to be better known in this country. She continued her survey of Bach keyboard works on Auvidis, and this Philips recording is a solitary effort for the label. It's very, very good.--David Hurwitz