Brandenburg Concertos

Johann Sebastian Bach

Benjamin Britten / English Chamber Orchestra

1968

Prime recommendation. Sound is wonderful, warm, and full, not dated. Playing is very stylish. May be slightly heavy compared to modern style, but still charming and buoyant. A great way to get to know these works.

Trevor Pinnock / The English Concert

1982 Period instrument performance.

Excellent alternative choice (period instrument). A great gateway into period performances. Very musical, stylish, not overly fast, and has a nice warm sound.

1984 Digital recording.

A beautiful, beautiful recording with a really sweet tone. Excellent if you want something more sumptuous and sweet rather than percussive clarity.

Jordi Savall / Les Concerts des Nations

1991 Period instrument performance.

A bit on the quicker side, virtuosic, but also very beautiful, almost sensuous phrasing. Gorgeous recording, good for those not used to period performances due to lovely sound.

Rudolf Serkin / Pablo Casals / Marlboro Festival Orchestra

mid-1960s

Vintage performance. Interpretations are a bit idiosyncratic (sometimes faster, sometimes slower). Features Rudolf Serkin on piano. Great humanity, warmth, and love of the music. Heartfelt.

Rudolf Serkin / Adolph Busch / Busch Chamber Players

1935 Historical recording.

Classic 1935 recording, also with Rudolf Serkin. Very musical, not heavy or sluggish. Stylish, doesn't sound overly romantic, but communicates warmth and love. Sound quality is dim but clear enough.