Credits:

Akhunov / Sinkovsky / La Voce Strumentale

Description:

The legendary Tokyo performance by the genius Richter. The immortal "Mass in B Minor" from Richter's first visit to Japan, recorded by NHK in 1969, has been newly mastered and restored from the original NHK source. This reissue has been carefully remastered by ALTUS and is now available in the highest standard of sound quality. This is a moving gem that expands the overwhelming world of Bach's great master, Richter, with unprecedented precision. The "Mass in B minor" is considered to be Bach's masterpiece. The masterpiece of Richter's recording is the studio recording made in 1961, but this live performance is not to be missed. The overwhelming presence of Richter's majestic presence and the passion of the live performance are awe-inspiring. The performance of Bach is intense and nostalgic, with a harsh and powerful delivery of sound, but also with a romantic swell at times. This is a great performance of music that will touch your heart and soul. The sharp "Kyrie", the contemplative and terrifying "Crucifixus", the penetrating and brilliant trumpet, and the slow and moving final fugue are all filled with Richter's passionate sympathy.Compared to the neo-immediate, stark interpretation and raw sound of the 1961 session recording on the Alhieff label that immortalized Richter as a Bach interpreter, this recording has a softer legato, a more natural progression, and a greater sense of breath and excitement, as if in waves." (From Kotaro Yamazaki's commentary) King International