Bach: The Works for Harpsichord, Vol. 1

Featuring

Peter Watchorn
Johann Sebastian Bach

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Composition History

Bach's compositional style underwent a dramatic transformation around 1713 after his patron, Duke Johann Ernst of Weimar, brought back published works by leading Italian composers like Vivaldi.

Composition History

The English Suites are known by that name because, according to J. N. Forkel, Bach composed them for an "Englishman of rank."

Interpretation

This recording includes all binary repeats and da capo repeats of alternating dances, a decision made to restore the internal balance and proportion of the dance movements and increase the overall playing time.

Compositional Technique

The English Suites unite Italianate concertante-style preludes with combinations of French and Italian-style dances, along with indigenous German counterpoint.

Composer's Artistic Vision

The English Suites demonstrate Bach's interest in combining French and Italian compositional elements, a concept known as 'les goûts réunis' by his contemporary François Couperin.

Performer Biography

Peter Watchorn, the harpsichordist on this recording, received the Erwin Bodky Memorial Award for his Bach performances in 1985 and earned a doctoral degree with his dissertation on the English Suites.

Composition History

The English Suites likely represent Johann Sebastian Bach's first major attempt at systematically composing keyboard suites, originating around his Weimar years (1708-1714).