2. music
  3. 1205454500

"Fastest" 15 Minutes in Music

I just got thru listening to the Chaconne movement of Bach's D minor violin sonata. The title of my post refers to the fact that every time I listen to this thing, time seems to stand still. This piece is monumental, profound, mysterious, tender, nerve-shattering; any adjective you care to come up with falls short. It is a world. How somebody could do (write) all this with one violin is beyond me. Beyond everyody except Bach I guess. Yes, the recording on my system sounds wonderful, as if the player is in the next room, but all audiophile considerations are forgotten in a moment, just leaving this great music. At the risk of sounding banal or hackneyed: this really is what it's all about, isn't it?

Steve O.
steveott

Showing 3 responses by steveott

steveott OP
54 posts
 
Hey Ghosthouse. I already listed the piece/movement; here are the two recording I have of this:

Julia Fischer on Pentatone: hybrid sacd. Wonderful sound (even on my 20-year-old CD player). Comes with all the Bach Partitas and sonatas (2-cd's and not cheap). This was the one I was listening to tonight.

Hilary Hahn on Sony: Redbook. Sound not as natural as the one above, but I think Hahn's playing is more dynamic and profound. I recommend this one over the former.

Tobias: Very good idea. Who can fail to be moved by this music? I myself was staggering out of the listening room!
I have not heard of the Ehnes; will look into it. I also have orchestral arrangements (Stokowsky and I forget the other). While I enjoy these, the piece is best for solo violin I think.

Steve O.
steveott OP
54 posts
 
Jdombrow:

Yes, that's it, you're right. I called it a sonata, but it's a partita. Ciaccona is the Italian spelling, I believe. Chaconne is the English.
Rich: Not into opera yet; my wife keeps trying. I think we have Aida though...

Steve O.
steveott OP
54 posts
 
Bbro: I agree totally. Well said.

Strateahed: you're very welcome. And that's a good price.

Rarl: last post was very moving. I'll be sure to look for that piece tonight. If I don't have it, I'll get it.

Steve O.
More to discover