“A BACH CELEBRATION.” Christopher Parkening, guitar; Los...

“A BACH CELEBRATION.” Christopher Parkening, guitar; Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra, Paul Shure, conductor (Angel DS-37343). This lyrical collection of famous and less familiar excerpts from the cantatas is bound to please fans of Bach-the-tunesmith. Since there is scarcely a moment of Baroque authenticity in the arrangements, purists need not bother. Despite this obstacle, the record emerges as a tastefully understated and highly listenable collaboration, thanks to Parkening’s sensitive and intelligent playing, to the sympathetic accompaniment of the Chamber Orchestra and to the sound mix that puts the guitar up close and personal.