J.S. Bach | Introducing Famous and Representative Works
The songs that are popular today—across not only classical music but also pop and jazz—are deeply influenced by past composers.
Among them, classical music is often called the foundation of music, and it’s no exaggeration to say that Johann Sebastian Bach, known as the “Father of Music,” was one of the figures who laid that very groundwork.
Bach’s music, while carrying a religious hue, is characterized by philosophical depth and intricately refined structure down to the finest details, with melodies of exceptional beauty.
Please take a look into the world of Johann Sebastian Bach, one of the greatest composers in history.
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J.S. Bach | Introducing Famous and Representative Works (71–80)
Christmas Oratorio, BWV 248J.S.Bach
A performance conducted by John Eliot Gardiner.
An oratorio in six parts composed for performance during the Christmas season.
Unlike opera, an oratorio is a dramatic musical work that does not use stage sets, costumes, or acting, and primarily deals with religious themes.
Schübler Chorale “Sleepers Awake” BWV 645J.S.Bach
A performance by the French-born female organist Marie-Claire Alain.
This piece is based on the aria from movement 4 of Cantata No.
140, BWV 140.
“Schübler” refers to Johann Georg Schübler, the publisher of the printed edition.
Toccata in C minor, BWV 911J.S.Bach
Performed by Glenn Gould.
A toccata is a work with a strongly improvisational character.
It seems that during his lifetime Bach was more highly regarded as an organ performer than as a composer, and his ability to improvise was said to be exceptional.
J.S. Bach | Introducing Famous and Representative Works (81–90)
Trio Sonata No. 6, BWV 530J.S.Bach
Performance by the blind German organist Helmut Walcha.
While a trio sonata is originally scored for basso continuo with two additional instruments, this piece is written for solo organ.
It consists of three movements: Vivace, Lento, and Allegro.
Partita No. 1, BWV 1043J.S.Bach
Originally, “partita” is an Italian word meaning a set of variations.
I find this piece charming for the way each note pops like droplets, so characteristic of keyboard instruments.
Perhaps because it was intended to be performed in private settings such as homes or salons, it exudes a cute and friendly atmosphere.
French Suite No. 5, BWV 816J.S.Bach
It consists of pieces named after dance forms: Allemande, Courante, Sarabande, Gavotte, Bourrée, Loure, and Gigue.
I feel that many of the pieces are gentle and refined.
Bach himself did not title this work “French Suites.” However, I find it to be a charming set of pieces brimming with a French flair.
Flute Sonata, BWV 1034J.S.Bach
A performance by flutist Emmanuel Pahud, harpsichordist Trevor Pinnock, and cellist Jonathan Manson.
Seven manuscript copies survive, suggesting the piece was highly popular even in its own time.
It consists of four movements: Adagio ma non troppo, Allegro, Andante, and Allegro.