Bach intended his keyboard instruction to help students achieve a 'cantabile style of playing', which means a singing, vocal-like quality.
Instruments
The French Suites are considered ideally suited for the clavichord, an instrument that allows for a range of dynamics and a singing vocal line due to its delicate sound production.
Composition History
J.S. Bach wrote the French Suites, along with other keyboard works, in the early 1720s primarily as instructional pieces for his students and his new wife, Anna Magdalena.
Recording & Production
This album was recorded at Dimitris Mitropoulos Hall, Megaron, Athens, on March 25 and April 24, 2019, using a Steinway & Sons, Model D piano.
Composition History
The title 'French Suites' was not given by Bach but by Johann Forkel in his 1802 biography, claiming they were written 'in the French manner'.
Performer Biography
Alexandra Papastefanou, the pianist on this recording, has an extensive background in Bach's music, having performed all of his keyboard works.
Compositional Technique
Bach's French Suites are characterized by their intimate nature, being primarily melodic rather than contrapuntal and on a small scale.
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