How does one fit the complete Bach works for organ onto three Cds? Jonathan Dimmock provides the answer in this well-conceived recording of the music that Bach published during his lifetime. Each disc features a different historical instrument: the first two present the Clavierübung, Part III, performed at the Klosterkirche in Grauhof and at St. Wilhadi in Stade, Germany, wyhile the third disc includes the Schübler Chorales and the Canonic Variations on "Vom Himmel hoch," played on the Silbermann organ in Arlesheim Cathedral, Switzerland. Dimmock’s expert taste in instruments is matched by the clear and stylish playing that reveals his commitment to this music. Especially successful is the incorporation of the sung chorales, which serve to introduce the organ preludes in Clavierübung III, in a reversal of the way they would have been performed during Bach’s time. The presence of the chorales makes it possible for Dimmock to fill two CDs with the music from this important collection, but more importantly, the monophonic melodies provide a refreshing change of texture between the dense counterpoint heard in the organ chorales. And for listeners who aren’t acquainted with the original chorales, it is illuminating to hear the simple musical material that served as Bach’s point of departure in creating these inspired settings.Dimmock revels in the lovely sounds of each organ with finely honed articulations. The flutes and cornets on the Arlesheim organ are gorgeous, and the inclusion of two versions of the Canonic Variations (the published score of 1747 and the autograph manuscript) provides the opportunity to hear many detailed timbres. No one will balk at the amount of repeated material because of the beauty of the organ and the rare chance to hear how Bach’s conception of the work changed before it was printed. This recording has been many years in the making and it has been well worth the wait. Dimmock’s artistry and attention to detail are everywhere apparent, from the beautiful photographs and thorough specifications of the organs, to the fine notes on the music provided by Dr. John Butt. A must for every Bach-lover!

—Kimberly Marshall, San Francisco AGO Newsletter