To achieve a delicate, diffuse sound that blended with the Baroque violin, the guitar was tuned down in pitch, sacrificing some attack and strength.
Composer Biography
Bach's job applications, including his move to Leipzig, were often motivated by a desire to improve his position musically, in terms of prestige, and financially, rather than solely for church music.
Critical Reception
The authenticity of Bach's Sonata in A minor BWV 1020 has been debated for centuries, being attributed to various composers before being accepted as genuine J.S. Bach.
Recording & Production
The album was recorded live in the studio to convey the feeling of the musicians playing directly for the listener, allowing for free improvisation.
Interpretation
The performers chose a modern guitar for the continued bass, which creates new sounds and expressions for Bach's music, differing from the more common harpsichord.
Composer Biography
J.S. Bach's time as Kapellmeister in Köthen was marked by creative freedom, as his patron, Prince Leopold, was a music enthusiast who spent a quarter of his princedom's revenue on his band.
Compositional Technique
These sonatas by J.S. Bach were composed for solo violin with a continued bass, allowing the accompanist significant freedom to embellish and improvise.
