Reviewed by Steven Whitehead

These Cantatas (Numbers 44, 59, 173 and 184) were written for the Whitsun services in Leipzig in 1724. Although none could be described as Bach at his best this reviewer found that he was humming the tunes long after he finished listening. The wonder of Bach’s music helps to explain why there is a Japanese orchestra and choir dedicated to performing Baroque religious music. That this recording was made in the chapel of the Shoin Women's University is another story that space does not allow to be told. This series is obviously a labour of love for Masaaki Suzuki, the founder of Bach Collegium Japan. His female soloists are Japanese (Yukari Nonoshita, soprano and Mutsumi Hatano, alto) and the males European (the Swiss tenor Gerd Turk and the Dutch bass Peter Kooij). All blend together very nicely. This is certainly a “must buy” for Bach collectors but there are more important purchases for those just starting to discover this great composer.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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