Occasionally, one has an irresistible urge to soothe the mind with music that appeals directly to the spirit. What could be better than two sources of such undisputable repute fused into one? Look no further, here it is: Mendelssohn inspired by Bach.

Scholars have advanced several views about why Bach instantly appeals. Interesting reading, though there is no unique answer. Yet, we all agree that it does. The same can be said about Mendelssohn, the master of the melody. Neither is to be mistaken by the term ‘easy listening’. It has more to do with the genius of each to reach emotional depth without having to resort to demanding constructions. I’m a great fan of Shostakovich, but after listening to his Eighth ‘War’ Symphony, I can do with some peace of mind. MDG’s newcomer fits that slot.

The German city of Leipzig is the bond that virtually unites Bach, Cantor at the St. Thomas church, and Mendelssohn, Music Director of the Gewandhaus. From childhood, Felix admired Johann Sebastian Bach and much of the Baroque era. It was he who rediscovered and programmed Bach’s passion music, and in turn it was Bach who inspired Mendelssohn to compose his 3 Preludes & Fugues Op. 37, and his 6 Sonatas Op. 65 for the organ. The fusion done.

It may not ring everyone’s bell, but Karl-Andreas Kolly is a competent Swiss pianist, known for his extensive and varied repertoire, having earned his laurels at many Swiss and international stages, and holding a prominent Professoriate at the Zurich University of the Arts (Music Department). On top of that, he has arranged these three Preludes & Fugues and the Sonatas 3, 4, and 6, for the piano, remaining, as he remarks in his notes in the booklet, as close to the original as possible. A not-to-be-underrated task, reducing the parts for two hands and two feet into just two. Adding Character Pieces from ‘Sieben Characterstücke’ with a typical Bach-inspired slant completes this unique recital.

The result is beyond reproach. Played with great care and church-like colours, Karl-Andreas Kolly makes a musical statement that will not fail to convince. At times, it sounds even as though more than two hands are playing, proof of the ingenuity of the arrangements. This release is an asset to the SACD catalogue and is surely something Organ fans ought to have on their shelves.

Blangy-le-Château, Normandy, France.

Copyright © 2025 Adrian Quanjer and HRAudio.net

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