Original Sound SA-CD Hybrid Series Bach 2SACD (playable on regular CD players) disc 1 ① French Suite No. 1 in D minor, BWV812 ② French Suite No. 2 in C minor, BWV813 ③ French Suite No. 3 in B minor, BWV814 ④ French Suite No. 4 in E major, BWV815 disc 2 ⑤ French Suite No. 5 in G major, BWV816 ⑥ French Suite No. 6 in E major, BWV817 ⑦ Overture in the French Style in B minor, BWV831 Glenn Gould (piano) Recorded: 1971-1973 Gould's recordings from ages 39-41. Recorded in a relatively short period for a collection of works. An immortal masterpiece that needs no explanation. Of course, it's always ranked number one in selections of famous songs and albums. Personally, I love the Overture in the French Style (⑦). Bach composed six French Suites. He also composed six Brandenburg Concertos, six Cello Suites, and the English Suites and Partitas. Perhaps there was a custom of publishing six pieces together at the time. Suites 1-3 of the French Suites are written in minor keys and have an overall calm impression, while Suites 4-6 are in major keys, giving them a lively and bright tone. It's no exaggeration to say that the French Suites 1-6 are all dance suites. Bach's keyboard solo suites in sets of six include the English Suites, Partitas, and this French Suite, but the French Suite is the lightest and most gentle, and the easiest to listen to. In this work, Gould gives a truly smooth and meticulous performance of a rare masterpiece. It is the most approachable of Gould's Bach performances, and excluding compilation albums, it is also recommended for Gould beginners. The Overture is not part of the suite but a solid composition, and Gould plays it well, which also adds to the flavor. While Gustav Leonhardt's harpsichord performance is often discussed for the French Suites, isn't Gould's performance on the piano the best? The lively touch brings out the inherent beauty of this work. Japanese domestic version, no obi 30 ★ Disc 1 has scratches, but plays without problems [playback confirmed] *Bulk purchase discount available (requires prior comment) 150 yen off for each additional item 150 yen off all items for 10 or more items