Alternatively, the sonatas might date from the 1730s when Bach was in Leipzig, directing the Collegium Musicum and composing much instrumental music.
Composition History
Bach may have composed these sonatas during his time in Köthen (1717-1723), a fertile period for instrumental music, possibly for his friend and violist Christian Ferdinand Abel or his patron Prince Leopold.
Composer's Artistic Vision
According to his first biographer Forkel, Bach viewed the different voices in his counterpoint as "so many persons engaged in conversation."
Instruments
The 7-string bass viol used in this recording is a modern copy of an instrument by Joachim Tielke, a leading instrument maker during Bach's lifetime.
Instruments
Joachim Tielke's viols are unique in Europe for having both a bent table and an arched back, which likely enhanced their sound depth, accuracy, and projection.
Compositional Technique
Bach's sonatas for solo instrument and obbligato harpsichord give the keyboard a true solo role, unlike a basso continuo where only the bass line and figured harmony are provided.
Composition History
The exact composition dates for Bach's viola da gamba sonatas are uncertain due to fragmented manuscript sources.
