Early Music Review (October 2008)

Pascal Dubreuil also brings a formidable technique to the partitas and his too are textbook performances, played on a copy of a Hans Ruckers II (1624) harpsichord by Titus Crijnen. There is more forward drive here, especially in the courantes which are as exciting as the gigues. There are some register changes for repeats but only a minimum of additional ornamentation. Dubreuil has been recorded in a mellow environment which, with sublety in the playing and use of agogic accent, helps impart a sense of both improvisation and purpose to allemandes and sarabandes. Some of the slower movements can be a touch relentless but, overall, these are very thoughtful performances, energetic when necessary and reflective at other times. I particularly enjoyed Partita 6 where Dubreuil really seem to have got under Bach's skin. Recommended for those who like their Bach largely predictable but with some exhilarating moments.

Noel O'Regan