
Bach wrote most of his instrumental concertos and chamber music, including the four Orchestral Suites and six Brandenburg Concertos, while serving as Capellmeister in Köthen from 1717 to 1723.
The virtuosity of the musicians in the Köthen court orchestra inspired Bach to create new and varied instrumental combinations in his compositions.
Wilhelm Furtwängler, a conductor featured on this album, is known for his 'Desert Island Collection' series.
Bach's courtly music from his time in Köthen is characterized by a blend of Italian, French, and German stylistic elements.
This album includes a recording of Bach's Suite No. 3 by the Berliner Philharmoniker from 1929, making it a historical recording.