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Lovely classics

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.

J.S. Bach | Introducing Famous and Representative Works (91–100)

Partita, BWV 826J.S.Bach

Martha Argerich BWV 826 Capriccio
Partita, BWV 826J.S.Bach

“Partita BWV 826” is a famous piece composed by Bach.

It is richly infused with church music elements characteristic of Bach.

Though the melodic line is calm and somewhat repetitive, it has a sense of speed that draws you in.

If you listen with your eyes closed, you may feel as if you’re in a European church, as if you’ve slipped back to the Baroque era.

Please give it a listen.

Bach Chorale “Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring”J.S.Bach

It is “Herz und Mund und Tat und Leben” (Heart and Mouth and Deed and Life), composed by Johann Sebastian Bach, a composer and keyboardist active in 18th-century Germany.

This church cantata consists of ten movements, and this video features a performance of the chorale known as “Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring.”

Orchestral SuiteJ.S.Bach

J.S. Bach / Orchestral Suite No. 3, BWV 1068 “Air on the G String”
Orchestral SuiteJ.S.Bach

These are orchestral works composed by Bach.

Consisting of four independent suites from BWV 1066 to 1069, each comprising four highly appealing pieces, the collection is considered a consummate example of the French overture style.

Among them, the second movement of the Third Suite is especially famous as the “Air on the G String.”

MinuetJ.S.Bach

Minuet J.S. Bach Recorder
MinuetJ.S.Bach

The “Minuet” is often performed not only on the recorder but also on instruments like the piano.

If you play it in F major, it only has one flat and is easy to perform.

The melody climbs smoothly and includes some higher passages, which might be a bit challenging, but it’s a piece that works perfectly well at a slow tempo, so start by taking it slowly.

This piece is known as a work by Bach, but in fact it was originally composed by a composer named Petzold! It’s said that Bach gave the piece to his wife at the time without mentioning the composer, which led to the misunderstanding that it was Bach’s own work.

Jesus, Joy of Man’s Desiring (Lord, the joy of human longing)J.S.Bach

It is known as a masterpiece by Bach, a representative composer of the Baroque era.

Its graceful triple meter feels pleasant and creates a calm, meditative atmosphere.

The music is characterized by a sense of religious depth and peace.

It was revised and premiered in 1723 for a festive visit in Leipzig.

Often favored at weddings and other ceremonies, its solemn, gentle tempo is perfect for welcoming guests.

It’s also recommended for times when you want to settle your mind or feel at ease.

English Suite No. 2J.S.Bach

Bach “English Suite No. 2 (Complete)” / Hiroshi Shimamura
English Suite No. 2J.S.Bach

Even among Bach’s meticulously refined works, the English Suites possess a poised, razor-sharp coolness.

Bach’s music is effortlessly stylish without ornamentation, yet the simpler the piece, the more it tests a performer’s true ability.

It seems that playing this work with real flair requires considerable skill.

SarabandeJ.S.Bach

Göran Söllscher – Sarabande from Bach’s Partita in C minor, BWV 997
SarabandeJ.S.Bach

Sarabande is one of Bach’s well-known pieces on the piano.

While it’s wonderful on piano or harpsichord, the guitar has a special charm too.

The guitar’s tone makes it feel familiar and everyday.

Although Bach is famous for church music, when played on guitar his music feels approachable, so I recommend it to everyone.

Please give it a listen.