J. S. Bach Performance Projects

Bach Performance practice 1945-1975: A comprehensive review of Sound Recordings and Literature Aldershot: Ashgate, 2003

In this book Dorottya Fabian examines the changing style of performing J.S. Bach's music during the third quarter of the 20th century. The theoretical framework is provided by a close scrutiny of literature on baroque performance practice and the Early Music movement. The practice is revealed by the study of some one hundred sound recordings issued between ca.1945-1975 of Bach's Goldberg Variations, Brandenburg Concertos and two Passions. The book is organised into 7 main chapters, the first two providing the philosophic-aesthetic context and historical data, the other five focusing on a particular performance issue each. The text is accompanied by a CD with illustrations from the discussed interpretations. Further sound examples can be heard by clicking the above links to the particular works. (contents.pdf)

Read an on-line review by Yo Tomita (Bach Bibliography)
Collection of selected other reviews

Solo Violin Sonatas and Partitas BWV 1001-1006

This is a new project. It aims to eventually provide a reception and performance history of Bach's works for unaccompanied violin. Historical records, including memoires and reviews, are collected as well as editions and sound recordings. Editorial practices are studied in relation to 18th, 19th and 20th century performance practice documented in violin tutors among other sources. However, the main focus is on sound recordings and what they tell us about performing traditions and violin playing. Over 40 complete recordings have already been collected and reviewed for initial observations. The preliminary results are currently being presented at conferences and public lectures (abstract). The first article summarizing these initial results is in press for publication in August 2004. See also Pulley. Students, especially violinists, interested in research at Honours, Masters or PhD level are encouraged to participate in this project.

Choral Music

This was a special project commissioned by the Melbourne Festival in conjunction with its Bach2000 events and symposium. The 40-minute public lecture represented a summary of current research on the performance history of Bach's vocal-choral compositions. Further work on vocal issues, especially what one can learn from sound recordings about vocal-choral style, awaits interested students contemplating graduate studies in music.

Tempo

In addition to arguments and tables presented in Dorottya Fabian's book, further data on tempo choices in recordings of Bach's works can be obtained from Pulley and Brandenburg Concertos, Goldberg Variations (tempo graphs).

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