Dunedin Consort, the team that brought you ‘John Passion’, is back with its first instrumental release: ‘J.S. Bach: Six Brandenburg Concertos’. Under the direction of Bach specialist John Butt, Dunedin Consort demonstrates its collective experience and historical knowledge in an exceptionally insightful and fresh performance. Bach’s Six Brandenburg Concertos are essential and enduringly popular works in the baroque orchestral repertory, full of interesting instrumentation choices and dancing melodies. Among the talented instrumentalists are Pamela Thorby (recorder), Jonathan Manson (cello) and John Butt (harpsichord). The Dunedin Consort has established an enviable reputation as one of the leading exponents of historical performance in the UK. Under the direction of prize-winning Bach specialist John Butt O.B.E., the ensemble has become particularly acclaimed for its inquisitive approach, shining new light into some of the best known pieces of the baroque repertoire. The multi-award-winning Dunedin Consort has won praise for the extraordinary ability of its players: ‘The playing is outstanding’ (The Observer). Since receiving a Gramophone Award for Messiah in 2007, Dunedin Consort has continued to receive accolades: John Passion was named ‘Recording of the Month’ by BBC Music and Gramophone magazines, Esther was voted one of the ‘Top 10 Classical Albums of 2012’ by The Times and its recordings of Matthew Passion and Acis & Galatea were both named Building A Library: First Choice by BBC Radio 3 - CD Review. BBC Music Magazine October 2013 ***** “Melodic ideas are beautifully punctuated and phrased, vibrato is used strictly ornamentally, and tempos strike my sensibilities as pretty well ideal. Perhaps what I like most of all, though, is an all-pervading atmosphere of intimate and convivial dialogue” The Guardian 12th September 2013 ***** “As always, the performances are underpinned by a wealth of research, though that learning is always worn very lightly...the performances of all six concertos are models of perfectly integrated baroque ensemble playing...As an example of what modern baroque practice and top-class musicianship can bring to these hugely familiar works, this set is exceptional.” Sunday Times 6th October 2013 “Butt’s Bach has made the strongest possible case for the “one voice to a part” theory...Here, the Edinburgh harpsichordist/director applies the same approach to Bach’s most familiar “orchestral” works...He has enriched the sound by adopting a very low pitch (tief Cammerton), even by baroque standards. The results are most compelling in the concertos for virtuoso soloists” Gramophone Magazine Awards Issue 2013 “the Dunedin players forge their own identity and capture what Butt praises as 'carefree, joyous and spontaneous works'...Notwithstanding the distinguished Brandenburg discography, this set is nothing short of sensational.” The Arts Desk 25th October 2013 “Shrill period performances can taste like the bitterest of espressos; Butt's impeccably prepared readings are more like a warming bowl of chocolate. There are so many moments to savour...This is a sensational recording – perhaps the best period Brandenburg set available.” MusicWeb International 11th December 2013 “If you love these works, you'll be entranced by the excellent quality of the Dunedin Consort and the warm listening experience. The small forces and lower pitch give this a wonderful sound and feeling. This one is a keeper.”