‘In Nathaniel’s hands, we listen again to a light and shade, not often heard in this genre. His epic performance of the variations is characterised by the clear, controlled accentuation of phrases, and by a refined, reverential shaping of Bach’s loveliest melodies – which appear like rays of sunshine in the often knotty and difficult, more extended passages of the piece. Arguably the greatest moment on the recording is in variation 30, the penultimate part. At just one minute and nine seconds in length, this short final statement (given a broad, noble pace by the soloist) is a triumphant fulfilment for composer, performer and listener. All that has gone before is reviewed and reconciled before we return to the soft breaths of the opening Aria. We have come full circle. And what an experience, both in terms of interpretation and playing, and in the astonishingly clear recording quality. An unreserved recommendation and a nomination for the baroque-era/early-classical-period CD of the last twelve months.’

Stuart Millson is the Classical Music Editor of The Quarterly Review

Full review here