The performer, Matthias Michael Beckmann, plays a 5-stringed cello tuned to a natural musical pitch of 432 Hz, which he believes elicits warm and sensuous overtones and undertones.
Performer Biography
Matthias Michael Beckmann is known as a pioneer of the cello, being the first cellist to play the entire cello literature on a unique 5-stringed instrument with a high E-string.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Bach's music, particularly the Cello Suites, is described as having an infinite cosmic depth and the ability to convey spiritual truths and allow listeners to experience pure being.
Compositional Technique
The Cello Suites feature well-concealed, yet at times apparent, polyphony on a solo instrument without basso continuo, which was revolutionary for its time.
Composition History
J.S. Bach's Cello Suites were likely composed before 1720, during his time as Hofkapellmeister (Court Director of Music) for Prince Leopold von Anhalt-Köthen.
Historical Context
No original manuscript of the Cello Suites exists; the 1727 copy by Bach's wife, Anna Magdalena, is generally considered the most authentic.
Instruments
The 6th Suite in D Major was specifically written for a 5-stringed instrument with an additional high E-string, which the performer Matthias Michael Beckmann uses on this recording.
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