I love all of the Partitias: they really are some of Sebastian's very best. Even he thought so, declaring them his Op. 1. And, of them, what is more glorious than Partita 1 – especially the Praeludium? Although Gould managed to mangle many of the movements in the Partitas, some were done with exquisite perfection, including the Praeludium. However, Perahia maintains an even keel throughout. No. 6, in e minor might use just a little more pathos, but Parahia's restraint actually builds intensity. No cheap tricks or thrills, just honest, straightforward music.
However, I just heard that András Schiff has also released a (second) recording of the Partitas. This forced me to break my "rule" of not buying too many copies of the same work – especially Bach. However, Schiff's recording of the Inventions remains my favorite; indeed, I like all of his Bach. I guess I'll have to write about it when I get it, which should be soon. Rules are made to be broken, and how could I pass up the opportunity to listen to what a mature Schiff will do with some of Bach's best.
