Concerto Copenhagen, the ensemble on this recording, is recognized as a world-class baroque orchestra and is considered Denmark's leading musical export in classical music.
Composer Biography
Bach's wife, Maria Barbara, died suddenly in May 1720 while he was away with Prince Leopold, a shock that may have prompted Bach to seek new employment.
Composition History
Bach sent the concertos to Margrave Christian Ludwig of Brandenburg-Schwedt in March 1721, hoping to secure employment, but the Margrave never responded.
Performer Biography
Lars Ulrik Mortensen, the harpsichordist and musical director for this recording, was awarded Denmark's most prestigious music award, the Léonie Sonning Music Prize, in 2007.
Critical Reception
The Brandenburg Concertos were 'rediscovered' in 1850 by the Bach-Gesellschaft but only achieved widespread popularity after World War II with the advent of the gramophone.
Composition History
The Brandenburg Concertos were not a planned unit but rather a collection of works, some based on earlier compositions, and were never performed during Bach's lifetime.
