| Comments: | Todd M. Billeci said:
The Markussen Organ of Sct. Hans Kirke, Odense, Denmark
Overview - Bowyer's cycle, in progress since 1991, features unmannered virtuosity, an organ of striking tone quality and an exceptionally realistic modern recording. Each disc contains a variety of works in the form of a recital, sustaining interest throughout. Bowyer's intriguing registrations distinguish the set.
Disc III - This entry is among my favorite organ discs of all time. It is a tragic and gripping program dominated by minor keys: F minor, C minor, D minor & A minor. Any
major keys occur only in the Sei Gegrüßet variations! The severe prelude from BWV 534 sets a grim tone from the first track. In addition to the sensitivity Bowyer brings to the passage work, his distinctive registrations are delightful, particularly in the F minor prelude, the Vivace of the Trio Sonata, and the haunting opening of the D minor concerto in which one can hear the air rushing through the pipes like human breath. The Penguin Guide gave this disc **(*) stars and described as the reeds as "grainy." In my humble opinion, that is a lot of nonsense. I return to this disc far more frequently than the entries Penguin Guide awarded three stars or "rosettes."
J Armes said:
While I admire Mr. Bowyer's attempt to provide a very complete set of the organ works of Bach, including those of doubtful transcription, I think there are better choices of organs, and I think there are other players with better technique. Overall, Bowyer's playing is not bad, but he stretches the tempo in some places where it is not applicable. The Prelude & Fugue in F minor is very nicely done except for what I have just mentioned. The registration is very nice, although I think a softer registration for the Fugue would be more appropriate. The other pieces are nicely done, but there is better out there. |
