The Six Partitas were Bach's first published work, appearing individually from 1726 and then together at the 1731 Leipzig Fair as 'Opus 1'.
Compositional Technique
The term 'Partita' is another name for a suite of dance movements in the same key, a title also used by Bach's predecessor at the Thomaskirche, Johann Kuhnau.
Performer Biography
Angela Hewitt, the pianist on this recording, is recognized as a pre-eminent Bach pianist, having won the 1985 Toronto International Bach Piano Competition.
Critical Reception
According to Bach's first biographer Forkel, The Six Partitas were a great success in their time, considered excellent compositions for the clavier.
Historical Context
Bach rarely traveled, learning about French and Italian dance music by copying scores found in libraries, absorbing composers like Albinoni, Vivaldi, Corelli, and Couperin.
Composer Biography
Johann Sebastian Bach moved from a prestigious Kapellmeister position in Cöthen to a lower-status Kantor role in Leipzig primarily to better educate his children.
Composer's Artistic Vision
In the Partita No. 6, Bach composed on the highest intellectual and emotional plane, not for popular appeal, demonstrating his strength of character and deep faith.
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