Bach, J.S.: Sonatas and Partitas for Solo Violin, Bwv 1001-1006

Featuring

Ilya Kaler
Johann Sebastian Bach

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Compositional Technique

Bach's Sonatas and Partitas for solo violin are considered among the most difficult original solo works for the instrument, featuring formidable technical challenges like persistent multiple stops.

Performer Biography

Ilya Kaler, the violinist, has served as concertmaster with the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra and as guest concertmaster with the San Francisco Symphony and the Philadelphia Orchestra.

Composition History

Bach composed his three Sonatas and three Partitas for unaccompanied violin during his time as Court Kapellmeister for Prince Leopold of Anhalt-Cöthen.

Composer Biography

Johann Sebastian Bach, the composer, lived and studied music with his elder brother in Ohrdruf from the age of ten, after both his parents died.

Compositional Technique

The monumental Chaconne from the Partita in D minor is the crowning glory of the set, making unprecedented demands on the performer's expressive and technical abilities.