Hyperion Records

The Partita in B minor (BWV1002) is outwardly, perhaps, the most straightforward and expressively undemonstrative of the three. It consists of four classical suite movements, though each has its own Double, or variation. The work begins with an Allemanda whose character is defined by angular, even seemingly awkward contours. By comparison, its Double is uncomplicated, yet here as throughout the suite Bach’s writing appears tinged with an underlying expressive melancholy. Following a brisker Corrente and its Double, marked Presto, is the Sarabande and Double, whose graceful gestures and noble eloquence establish its position as a focal point of the suite. The concluding Tempo di borea, or Bourrée, and its Double make effective use of sequences to extend phrases and to generate energy.

from notes by Nicholas Anderson © 2009