Immerse yourself in the timeless elegance of classical piano with Wilhelm Kempff's "Kempff plays Bach," a captivating album released on August 17, 2018, under Decca Music Group Ltd. This exquisite collection showcases Kempff's masterful interpretations of Bach's works, along with a few select pieces from other composers, all arranged for piano. The album spans a variety of genres within the classical realm, including classical piano, chamber music, and more, offering a rich and diverse listening experience.
Kempff's virtuosity shines through in his performances of Bach's iconic compositions, such as the Chromatic Fantasia and Fugue in D Minor, BWV 903, and the beloved Herz und Mund und Tat und Leben, BWV 147: Jesus bleibet meine Freude. His arrangements of Bach's choral preludes and other works for piano are particularly noteworthy, demonstrating his deep understanding and reverence for the composer's music.
In addition to Bach, Kempff also pays homage to other classical masters, including Handel and Rameau, with his renditions of their harpsichord suites and other works. The album concludes with two beloved piano pieces by Beethoven: Presto (Bagatelle) in C Minor, WoO 52, and Für Elise, Bagatelle in A Minor, WoO 59.
With a total runtime of 1 hour and 3 minutes, "Kempff plays Bach" is a testament to Kempff's enduring legacy as one of the most celebrated pianists of the 20th century. Whether you're a seasoned classical aficionado or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to delight and inspire.
