J.E. Bach: 6 Sonatas for Violin & Fortepiano

Featuring

Susanna Pisana
Maurizio Paciariello
Johann Ernst Bach

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Compositional Technique

These sonatas are titled 'sonatas for fortepiano and a violin,' indicating that both instruments have equal importance in their dialogue, unlike earlier works where the violin often served as mere accompaniment.

Compositional Technique

All six sonatas are structured in three movements, alternating fast-slow-fast, following the style of the Italian symphony.

Composer Biography

Johann Ernst Bach, the composer of these sonatas, was the third-born son of Johanna Sophia Siefer and Johann Bernhard Bach, and was taught by his father and later by his uncle and godfather, Johann Sebastian Bach.

Performer Biography

Susanna Pisana, the violinist on this recording, studied with Norbert Brainin, leader of the Amadeus Quartet, and specializes in chamber music and philological performance on original instruments.

Instruments

The writing in the fast movements, the lyricism of the slow sections, and the inclusion of dynamic markings suggest these sonatas were designed for the newly invented fortepiano, despite Johann Ernst Bach being known as an organist and harpsichordist.

Composition History

Johann Ernst Bach's Six Sonatas for fortepiano and violin were among the few works he published during his lifetime, with the first three released in 1770 and the remainder in 1772.

Critical Reception

Although critics deemed Johann Ernst Bach's sonatas 'too modern,' they were well-received by the public, leading to a new edition being released in 1775.