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

Featuring

Jaap Schröder
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 violin, largely due to the persistent use of multiple stops.

Critical Reception

Even after Bach's death, when his style was considered old-fashioned, the solo sonatas continued to be studied, often referred to as 'studies for the violin,' as seen in the first printed edition of 1802.

Composition History

Bach likely began composing these six solo sonatas and partitas for violin during his time in Weimar, with the autograph manuscript dating from 1720.

Performer Biography

Jaap Schröder, the violinist on this album, has had a long career encompassing chamber music, solo performances, conducting, and teaching, with nearly 150 recordings to his name.

Historical Context

The history of violin performance shows an ongoing tendency to heighten musical tension by adjusting pitch and playing technique, leading to changes like the addition of a chin-rest by Louis Spohr in the 1820s.

Composer Biography

Bach, an outstanding string player with a keen appreciation for sound quality, owned a violin made by Stainer, a celebrated violin-maker of the baroque period.

Interpretation

The current recording by Jaap Schröder, a violinist, was made in 1984 and 1985 using a Dutch baroque violin and a baroque bow, reflecting a return to original instruments and playing techniques.