New Release: Murray Perahia Plays Bach’s French Suites

Pianist Murray Perahia’s newest album features J.S. Bach’s six French Suites, written between 1722 and 1725. This is Perahia’s first release on the Deutsche Grammophon label, following a 43-year relationship with Sony Classics and its predecessor, Columbia Masterworks. In the recording’s trailer, he describes the French Suites as “Bach on the highest level”- “delicate” and infused with French mannerisms such as accents on second beats of the Sarabande.

Each suite is a collection of varied Baroque dance movements (Allemande, Courante, Sarabande, and Gigue). Take a moment, close your eyes, and enter the timeless, contemplative space of the Fifth Suite’s Sarabande:

I don’t think Bach wrote one note that didn’t have wider meanings and that wasn’t to be tackled with all one’s heart and soul.

-Murray Perahia

Find this Recording