J.S. BACH: The Art of Fugue (Metzler organ, Trinity College, Cambridge, UK)

£12.00 + P&P

J.S. Bach’s The Art of Fugue is considered his monumental final statement, a work renowned for its architectural complexity and spiritual depth. This recording presents the work on the celebrated Metzler organ of Trinity College Chapel, Cambridge, an instrument noted for its clarity. The performance approaches the score not as an abstract exercise but as a coherent dramatic journey, where registration is used to clarify the structure and character of each movement. The chosen arc builds towards the unfinished fugue, treating it as a purposeful fragment that invites reflection on the work’s inherent possibilities, offering a compelling interpretation of one of the repertoire’s most significant compositions.

Description

Released on a limited edition DigiSleeve CD and on all digital platforms: 16 January 2026

Robert Costin organ

Johann Sebastian BACH (1685–1750)
Die Kunst der Fuge (‘The Art of Fugue’), BWV 1080
1. Contrapunctus 1
2. Contrapunctus 2
3. Contrapunctus 3
4. Contrapunctus 4
5. Contrapunctus 5
6. Contrapunctus 6 per diminutionem in stylo francese
7. Contrapunctus 7 per augmentationem et diminutionem
8. Contrapunctus 8
9. Contrapunctus 9 alla duodecima
10. Contrapunctus 10 alla decima
11. Contrapunctus 11
12. Contrapunctus 14

13. Chorale prelude: Vor deinen Thron tret ich hiermit, BWV 668a (1750)

14. Musikalisches Opfer (‘A Musical Offering’), BWV 1079: Ricercar à 6 (1747)

Recorded and produced by Thomas Bryan (Chantry Sound)
Edited and mastered by Ben Connellan (Giraffe Productions)

Press Quotes

‘With its strict fundamentals and guidelines, The Art of Fugue is not intended for the average listener, but when presented as it is here, it certainly underpins the fact that the genius of Johann Sebastian Bach was one of the major pinnacles within the history of music.’ (Classical Music Sentinel)

‘This is a hugely enjoyable recording, Costin making every line of this complex counterpoint tell. Highly recommended.’ (***** Choir & Organ)

‘In the case of movements that fall into distinct sections, Costin delineates them through registration. He never obviously plays to the gallery but lets each remarkable movement speak for itself. For listeners who are not bothered by the omission of the canons and mirror fugues, this could be their recording of choice.’ (American Record Guide)

‘…a hugely enjoyable recording’ (Cathedral Music Trust)