Glenn Gould – J.S. Bach: The Well-Tempered Clavier (Das Wohltemperierte Klavier / Le Clavier Bien Tempéré) CD

48 Preludes and Fugues, BWV 846–893

UPC: 5099704226620 

MPN: M3K 42266 (DIDC 10264) 

Brand Name: CBS Masterworks / Columbia Masterworks

Overview

This complete 3-CD edition presents Johann Sebastian Bach’s monumental The Well-Tempered Clavier (Books I & II, BWV 846–893), performed by legendary pianist Glenn Gould. Recognized as one of the most profound interpretations of Bach’s keyboard works, this set brings Gould’s intellectual precision, structural clarity, and unique rhythmic insight to life.

Originally recorded in 1975 and digitally remixed in 1986, the production features remastering by Andrew Kazdin (Vol. II) and Laura Harth (Vol. I). The recordings preserve Gould’s distinct touch—his unmatched articulation, minimal pedal use, and analytical brilliance—offering listeners a definitive experience of Bach’s timeless contrapuntal art.

Product Features

• Format: 3 Compact Discs (Digital Audio)
• Series: CBS Masterworks – Digital Remaster (Digalog Edition)
• Work: Das Wohltemperierte Klavier / The Well-Tempered Clavier, Books I & II, BWV 846–893
• Performer: Glenn Gould (piano / Klavier)
• Recording Year: 1975
• Digital Remix: 1986
• Producer: Andrew Kazdin
• Remixing Engineers: Laura Harth (Vol. I), Andrew Kazdin (Vol. II)
• Label: CBS Masterworks / CBS Records Canada Ltd.
• Made in: Holland
• Language: Multilingual cover (English / German / French)
• Catalog Number: M3K 42266 / CB 783

Interesting Facts

• Gould’s Final Bach Recording: These 1975 sessions represent Glenn Gould’s last complete studio traversal of Bach’s keyboard works before his death in 1982.
• Historic Digital Remastering: The 1986 digital remixes introduced new clarity and balance, marking a milestone in early digital restoration for classical catalogues.
• Scholarly and Spiritual Depth: Gould approached the Well-Tempered Clavier not merely as performance but as philosophical reflection—a dialogue between intellect and faith, architecture and emotion.
• Global Legacy: This CBS Masterworks edition remains a cornerstone in any classical collection, studied by pianists and musicologists for its technical precision and interpretive insight.

Publishers

© 1975, 1986 CBS Inc. “CBS” and “MASTERWORKS” are trademarks of CBS Inc., except in Canada (CBS Records Canada Ltd.). Distributed by CBS Records / CBS Disques S.A. Printed in Holland / Imprimé en Hollande.

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