The French Suites progressively increase in the number of French Baroque dances (like minuets and gavottes) interpolated between the sarabande and gigue, ranging from two to four.
Composer's Artistic Vision
The French Suites were likely composed as a set, as their moods progressively brighten from the dark First Suite to the effervescent Sixth.
Performer Biography
Sergey Schepkin, the pianist on this album, is recognized as a leading interpreter of Bach's keyboard works and has performed at venues like Carnegie Hall and Lincoln Center.
Historical Context
The Chromatic Fantasia and Fugue suggests Bach favored keyboard tunings that allowed playing in all keys, as it is hardly playable without a more modern tuning system.
Composition History
Bach's French Suites were composed between 1722 and 1725, following his English Suites and preceding his Partitas.
Compositional Technique
Unlike Bach's English Suites and Partitas, the French Suites all begin directly with allemandes, except for one manuscript of the Sixth Suite which includes a prelude.
Critical Reception
Johann Nikolaus Forkel, Bach's first biographer, described the Chromatic Fantasia and Fugue as 'unique' and noted its ability to impress even an unpracticed listener.
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