Johann Sebastian Bach took the opportunity to enhance the previously mediocre inventory of string instruments in Leipzig’s two main churches in 1729 by purchasing four violins, two violas and two cellos from the workshop of Johann Christian Hoffmann (Leipzig 1683-1750). Three of these eight instruments, two violins and a viola, are still owned by the Thomaskirche. They could only be admired in a display case for decades, but here they can be heard in a recording for the first time.

The Art of Fugue is framed by Bach’s first and last Leipzig chorale arrangements, recorded on the Hildebrandt organ in Störmthal near Leipzig, which Bach had examined and inaugurated. Hearing these emblematic works on instruments that the Cantor himself had played is an extraordinary experience that provides direct historical testimony to the sound world of Johann Sebastian Bach.

Collegium Musicum ’23
Nadja Zwiener – violin 1
Anna Dmitrieva – violin 2
Magdalena Schenk-Bader – viola
Joseph Crouch – cello
Johannes Lang – organ
Hedwig Ohse – violin (tracks 7–9)
Anna Reisener – cello (tracks 7 and 17)