J. S. Bach: Suites Anglaises No. 2 & 6 - Concerto Italien
10/6/2014, 21 Tracks, 1:14:34
Featuring
Pierre Hantaï
Johann Sebastian Bach
Did you know?
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Composition History
The 'Italian Concerto' was one of the few compositions by Bach to be printed during his lifetime, appearing in 1735 as part of his 'Clavier-Übung'.
Composition History
The title 'English' Suites may stem from a note by Johann Christian Bach, the composer's son, indicating they were 'fait pour les Anglois' (made for the English).
Composition History
The 'English' Suites, despite their name, were likely composed by Bach between 1720 and 1724, probably before his 'French' Suites.
Compositional Technique
The cycle of 'English' Suites follows a precise tonal scheme, with the six keynotes from A to D forming the beginning of the chorale 'Jesu, meine Freude'.
Instruments
The 'Italian Concerto' and 'Overture in the French Style' were specifically written for a two-manual harpsichord, exploiting its timbral differences and soli-tutti contrasts.
Compositional Technique
Bach subtly incorporated his musical signature (B flat, A, G, B natural, which spells B-A-C-H in German note names) into the Gigue of the Sixth 'English' Suite.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Bach's 'English' Suites and 'Italian Concerto' benefited from his avid study of French and Italian music, which profoundly influenced his style.
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