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 (101–110)
Concerto for Two Violins, BWV 1043J.S.Bach
This piece features two solo violins.
The two violins are on equal footing, continually imitating each other as they unfold the performance.
A musical dialogue emerges—one poses a question, the other responds, and then the first replies again—creating a refined and dignified concerto.
The work is in three movements: the first clearly showcases the dialogue form by alternating between tutti sections and passages centered on the two soloists; the second lets an emotional melody flow seamlessly; and the third builds tension, developing into thrilling music.
Five Little Preludes No. 1, BWV 939 in C majorJ.S.Bach
The Five Little Preludes are works preserved only in a manuscript copy by Johann Peter Kellner, a devotee of Johann Sebastian Bach.
In fact, there is still no definitive resolution to the debate over whether they are truly by Bach.
In No.
1 in C major, BWV 939, a repeated sequence—called a “sequence,” where a motif recurs at different pitch levels—is employed.
To keep the music from becoming flat and monotonous through mere repetition, bringing out nuances through the progression and changes in register can better convey the piece’s appeal.
Six Little Preludes in D major, BWV 936J.S.Bach
Among Johann Sebastian Bach’s works, there are many collections that were compiled and published after his death by pupils and scholars, and the Six Little Preludes is considered one of them.
Because all six pieces display highly developed compositional technique, some suggest that Bach may have written them with the idea of assembling them into a substantial collection.
No.
4 in D major offers a soothing sense of calm and peace.
When performing, listen closely to the interplay of the voices—especially the two right-hand parts that converse with each other—and shape the music with attention to their interactions.
Six Little Preludes in C minor, BWV 934J.S.Bach
A Bach classic for beginners: the Six Little Preludes.
They’re also known as the Six Small Preludes.
Among them, I’d like to recommend the Six Little Preludes in C minor, BWV 934.
It isn’t especially famous compared to the other little preludes, but its difficulty is relatively low, and as long as you can keep the left-hand part steady, it’s a piece that even children who have just started piano lessons can tackle.
There are no conspicuous leaps, so if you have small hands or find chords and jumps challenging, please give it a try!
Nine Little Preludes in C major, BWV 924J.S.Bach
Among Johann Sebastian Bach’s works, many were compiled after his death by pupils and scholars and subsequently came to be known to the world as Bach’s compositions.
“Nine Little Preludes: No.
1 in C major, BWV 924” is one such piece, included in the Clavier-Büchlein for Wilhelm Friedemann Bach, named after Bach’s eldest son.
This refined work features gentle yet sparkling ornamentation throughout; it is best performed with a rounded, mellow tone that avoids harsh edges.
J.S. Bach | Introducing Famous and Representative Works (111–120)
A Mighty Fortress is Our God from Cantata No. 80, BWV 80 – VoiceJ.S.Bach
A cantata by Johann Sebastian Bach, known as the “Father of Music.” During his 65-year life, Bach—who served as a church choir member, a court organist, and a Kapellmeister—composed numerous cantatas.
This cantata, No.
80, bears the title “A Mighty Fortress Is Our God.” A “fortress” is a structure built to defend against external enemies, and the piece proclaims that Jesus Christ protects us.
Cello Suite #1 In G, PreludeJ.S.Bach
An undisputed classic by Bach! Everyone has surely heard it at least once.
This piece, too, is built around arpeggios at its core.
Bach’s unique melodies and refined scales even evoke a mood that connects to modern music.
People often say Bach’s music relates to dance music and rock, and I think that description fits—his sound was truly ahead of its time.
In the end, I feel a single-voice piano tone is the most suitable timbre to enjoy this piece.