Title: A Bach Recital Artist: James Friskin Year: 1954 Label: Vanguard Catalog #: BG-543/44/45 Track Listing: see photos Vinyl Grade: VG+ play grade *the vinyl itself has maintained a nice sheen over the last 60 years and vinyl displays only a few visual blems; other than 4 light ticks (Side 2, Track 3 of 543-B), there was only an occasional tick; all 3 records can be listened to and enjoyed, however the vinyl plays with low-grade background surface noise throughout (since Friskin rarely appeared in concert, this is a perfect record to download with noise filtering software); I don't think there are many available since only 500 copies were pressed; condition of labels are as seen in photos Cover Grade: VG+  *solid jacket with moderate shelf & storage wear, with main blem being at corner dings (see photos); signed Limited Edition of only 500 copies displayed on inside cover with all record pockets (w/ fold-over flaps) having solid seams.  Notes: original rice paper inner sleeves included; also included is the original 8-page booklet containing analytical notes by James Friskin on the Bach Recital; in addition the original 1954 complete catalog (inclues releases through January, 1955) of all Vanguard Recordings is included and is 14 pages. Info: "Friskin, a pedagog who ventured but rarely on the concert stage, is particularly known for his Bach interpretations. These have been prized by many specialists over the years and connoisseurs of the repertoire should show strong interest in this set. Friskin's rigid discipline, his perfect control in voice leading and profound knowledge of ornamentation is beautifully displayed in this finely engineered disks. Included are the french Suites, Nos. 3, 4, 5 & 6, 15 two-part inventions, the great Chromatic Fantasy and Fugue, the Italian Concerto, plus other Bach selections to round out a most satisfying LP recital." (Billboard Magazine review, Feb 26, 1955)                                                                                 GRADING STANDARDS: 

Mint (M): A Mint record and cover must both appear to be absolutely perfect in every way. For this reason the grade is seldom used, even with sealed albums where the record itself can only be assumed to be mint.
Near Mint (NM): Otherwise Mint, a nearly perfect record or jacket will have only one or two minor flaws. Any visual mark on the record will be play-graded to confirm it does not affect the quality of play. Any specific flaws in either the record or jacket will be noted in the item description.
Excellent (EX) or (VG++): Still very close to being nearly perfect, an excellent record or jacket will have a minimum of audible or visual imperfections. Any visual mark on the record will be play-graded to confirm whether it affects the quality of play, and any noise disturbance will be noted in the item description.  Covers will show only minor signs of wear or age, with any blem also being noted in the item details.
Very Good Plus (VG+): The vinyl is considered a good playable copy that may display more signs of wear than a VG++ grade, but one's overall listening experience will still be positive. Jackets may also display more signs of wear or aging, with any specific flaws in either the record or jacket being noted in the item description.
Very Good (VG): Many of the defects seen in a VG+ record or jacket will be more pronounced on a VG album. The vinyl displays more visual blems, and even though surface noise is evident during play, it will still not overpower the music. Jackets will also have more numerous visual blems. All flaws will be noted in the item description. 
Good (G): A record in good condition can be put onto a turntable and will play through without any repeating "skips", although it will have more severe audible surface noise and scratches than a VG record. Jackets will also have even more pronounced defects than a VG cover. This grade is usually reserved for impossibly rare records that are otherwise unattainable.

                                                                             PACKAGING & SHIPPING:

All records are sleeved in a new paper sleeve, removed from jacket to prevent any seam splitting, and then shipped inside a poly album sleeve.  Shipping discounts are available when buying more than one item. Calculated shipping rules have been set up that that automatically combine multiple purchases into one shipment. You can also purchase multiple items and request an invoice with a combined items shipping charge. All international orders shipped via USPS First Class International mail are automatically covered by ShipSaver Insurance. You will receive an insurance confirmation email at time of shipment. If you receive a damaged item, please keep the item and package as originally received, and contact me immediately. Import duties, taxes and charges are the buyer's responsibility and are not included in the item price or shipping charges. Merchandise will not be marked as a "gift".                                                                                      MISCELLANEOUS: All pictures are actual images of the item for sale. Michigan residents will be charged 6% state sales tax on their purchase, including shipping & handling charges.  In the case of sealed record albums, I can only assume that the vinyl is in Mint condition.  If you purchase a sealed record & want to ensure it is indeed new & unplayed  prior to shipping,  let me know and I will be glad to open and inspect the disc.                                                                                                                                                         Thank you for visiting dBeat Records !
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