Sinfonias BWV 788, 791, 792, 797

as recorded by David Russell on “The Grandeur of the Baroque” (Telarc 33223-02) J.S. Bach's Sinfonias, or Three Part Inventions as they are probably more commonly called, have long been amongst my most dearly loved music. Along with the equally wonderful Two Part Inventions these pieces form the basis of many pianists Baroque Repertoire. As a young piano student I found the melodic and harmonic purity of these pieces absolutely captivating. Many years on and I am still besotted by these works. The four pieces in the present volume are Sinfonias BWV 788,791,792 and 797. David Russell's transcriptions are done with skill and integrity, and whilst it is impossible not to change the dynamic energy of the music when performed on the guitar, these scores allow the guitarist to gain a real insight into the musical aims and qualities of Bach's keyboard writing. These pieces should not be undertaken lightly, the music and the transcriptions are far too good for that. If you are prepared to spend as much time as it takes, then go for it. The rewards in both what you will learn about contrapuntal playing, not to mention fingering, phrasing and learning to breath this music are immense. John Arran (Classical Guitar Magazine)