J.S. Bach: Magnificat in D Major, BWV 243

Karl Richter’s interpretations of Bach’s vocal music (1958-70) set new standards in rhythmic discipline and textural clarity. In 1961, he recorded, with his own Munich Bach Choir and Orchestra, the Magnificat that was written for Bach’s first Christmas in Leipzig (1723). The highly drilled choral singing is punchy and forthright with precision-engineered rhythms, especially in “Fecit potentiam” where the throaty glee with which the voices articulate Bach’s runs is thrillingly overlaid with Richter’s signature silvery trumpets. Richter grants more time and emotional space to the solo movements. A generous tone and long-breathed phrasing mark contralto Hertha Töpper’s warm-hearted “Et exsultavit spiritus meus”, movingly intensified in her melting duet “Et misericordia” with tenor Ernst Haefliger. All things considered, this joyous, thoughtful and expansive account of the Magnificat stands at the pinnacle of Richter’s recorded legacy.