Ich Bin Dein Mensch

As one of the most legendary champions of Bach Karl Richter's many (and in some instances multiple) recordings of the composers Cantata's arguably is his greatest achievement. Richter enlisted many of the finest vocalists in their prime during the 1950's through the early 70's for these recordings elevating the neglected form at the time to the level of Grand Opera. His conducting, especially for his day as well remains remarkably animated and fluent yet always respectful of Bach's underlying powerful architectural components. These recordings set the standard and for many today remain the benchmark performances by which all new ones continue to be judged.

Nikolaus Harnoncourt and Gustav Leonhardt were at the forefront of the early music movement that swept classical music in the ’70s and ’80s, performing pieces from the canon with period instruments in order to re-create the original intent of the composer as closely as possible. And their most enduring legacy is right here, the complete survey of Bach’s sacred cantatas that they began in 1971 and completed in 1988. This body of work has served as a beacon for younger musicians seeking a fuller understanding of Bach’s work, and will forever be regarded as one of the pioneering projects in the history of recording classical music. 60 CDs in all.

This impressive and extensive release, part of Profils Karl Richter Edition, presents Johann Sebastian Bachs Magnificat, as well as several of his Cantatas. In addition to Richters brilliant interpretations, the prominence of the soloists in these recordings is also outstanding, as well as the quality of the Munchener Bach Orchester. Initially, the ensemble bore the name ""Solistengemeinschaft der Bachwoche Ansbach"" and served as a home orchestra of Bach Week, which has been present in the Middle Franconian residence since 1948…