This set abounds with firsts for me.
I had never
heard of Michael Radulescu, so had no pre-conceived notions
of his standing as an organist. He plays a programme rich in
Bach’s works with which I was largely unfamiliar. Mr
Radulescu was born during WW2 to a Rumanian father and a German
mother. His musical biography makes impressive reading, and
it is clear that he enjoys a fine reputation in Europe. Since
his public debut in 1959 as a recitalist, he has held major
posts as organist, professor and served as juror at organ competitions.
He has toured overseas but not, it seems, to NZ, which is in
my opinion, a pity.
CD 1 opens
the programme which continues through CD 2, with the wonderful
Praeludium pro Organo pleno, which is basically the same as
the “St Anne” prelude, followed by 21 chorale settings,
four duets, and ending with the familiar majestic triple fugue “pro
Organo pleno”, also like that of the “St Anne”.
Thus the programme is tied together in what seems to be a very
neatly sandwiched package. Another mark, with which Indra Hughes
would doubtless concur, of Bach’s great genius.
Many of
the pieces sound rather grave and maybe even a tad introverted
to our ears, but they served a specific part of the Lutheran
musical liturgy when written, therefore best listened to with
that in mind. The recording engineer is not identified but
he deserves a pat on the back. The sound is crisp and clear
and microphone placement has allowed the organ to be heard
close, but not so close that all the reverberation is lost.
Mr Radulescu’s
articulation is flawless and his registrations, provided in
the notes, are unflamboyant; just what is necessary for informative
listening. The Ahrend organ speaks without chuff or clatter,
allowing every voice to be heard in well-nigh ideal balance.
The 32’ Untersatz in the pedal is saved for the final
fugue and adds much to the grandeur of the closing.
If you see
this set in The Red Shed again, snaffle! If you are thinking
of getting it through the internet, realise that the programme
does not provide, nor does it intend to provide, thrilling
ringing acoustics with the organ at full voice at times throughout.
Rather, it is a well researched, well planned and well executed
reading of these Bach works.
