J. S. Bach: The Well-Tempered Clavier, Books 1 & 2 – Vladimir Feltsman

J.S. Bach’s The Well-Tempered Clavier is both a massive theoretical exercise and a deeply compelling work of art. It would be hard to imagine any music that has made more of an impression on succeeding generations of composers than the 48, as the two books of 24 preludes and fugues in every major and minor key have long been abbreviated. Russian pianist Vladimir Feltsman strikes a fine balance between the intellectual and emotional sides of this music.