Album insights
Bach's chorales and arias can be likened to the rosettes in cathedrals, where reflections of light constantly shift between bright major and melancholic minor keys. These rosettes, the heart of cathedrals, resonate with a person's innermost being, mirroring the effect of Bach's chorales and arias. They embody the romantic essence within his extensive body of work, touching us like no other romantic sentiment.
Walter Rummel (1887–1953) epitomized Romanticism—a free spirit and individualist with a constant pull towards the past. A dreamer chasing lofty ideals, he delved deeply into Greek philosophy, medieval poetry, and religious studies, standing out for his engagement with religious thinkers like Thomas Aquinas and Saint Augustine. Rummel's affinity for Bach, particularly his vocal music, aligned with his love for medieval music, mysticism in 16th-century Spain, and the spiritual aspect in Bach's works.
In the midst of the 1922-1938 period, Rummel's transcriptions, published by J & W Chester in London, stood out as among the earliest. Compared to past transcribing composers like Liszt, Tausig, d'Albert, and others who concentrated on Bach's organ or violin works, Rummel's focus was primarily on Bach's vocal music, evident in 22 of his 25 transcriptions.
Born in Berlin, Rummel was immersed in a profoundly musical family environment. His mother, a talented amateur pianist and daughter of Samuel F. B. Morse, the American artist and inventor of the telegraph, contributed to the constant flow of music in the Rummel household. Raised in a musical hub, Rummel's exposure extended to renowned musicians, singers, and even cultural figures like Mathilde Wesendonck, Wagner's famous muse. With a solid music foundation, Rummel made significant forays into piano and composition, paving the way for his later international success.
Throughout his career, Rummel showcased a diverse repertoire ranging from Beethoven and Schubert to Chopin, Liszt, and contemporary composers, earning accolades akin to Alfred Cortot and Vladimir Horowitz. His profound interpretations and technical finesse garnered him acclaim across Europe, cementing his legacy as a virtuosic pianist. Collaborations with notable conductors marked his performances, illustrating his prowess in interpreting classic works with orchestral arrangements.
Amidst Europe's turmoil in the 1930s, Rummel's decisions were influenced by his third wife, a pro-German Russian poet, leading to complex concert engagements during World War II. Despite challenges, he continued his musical journey, excelling internationally until his passing in 1953.
Rummel's dedication to Bach's music was evident in various concerts and his meticulous transcriptions, showcasing a balance between structural clarity and virtuosic flair. His deep understanding of Bach's pieces is apparent in the intricate details, pedal instructions, and phrasing nuances within his adaptations, emphasizing a unique approach to piano transcription.
Charles Timbrell © 2006