Helmut Walcha (October 27, 1907 in Leipzig, Germany – August 11, 1991 in Frankfurt am Main, Germany) was a German organist. He specialized in the organ works of the Dutch and German baroque organ masters, and is best known for his recordings of the complete organ works of Johann Sebastian Bach. He recorded Bach's complete works twice, once in mono, and again in stereo from 1956-71. This latter stereo cycle (released 10/09/2001), remastered with more bass definition, brilliant highs and repackaged in an economical collector's edition 12 CD box, has his only recording of The Art of Fugue. The original analog DG engineering contained in these recordings surpasses many digital efforts. His performances set a new standard in their day they and have not yet been supplanted by more recent attempts for several reasons: His search and use of two of the best Baroque organs (which he preferred to those of the modern or romantic period): the great organ of the St. Laurenskerk in Alkmaar (Holland) and the the organ of Saint-Pierre-le-Jeune in Strasburg (he held fundraisers for the authentic restoration of these and other Baroque organs). His brilliant registrations (the careful pipe rank selections, he never allowed their publication) enable multiple voice lines to be clearly legible. His supple pedal technique and keyboard skill give balanced and complete musical images which remain in the mind long after listening. His musical Inner Vision: As a result of a smallpox vaccination, W

View on Last.fm →