RAG MusicClassic
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 (161–170)

Gavotte from Partita No. 3 in E major, BWV 1006, for Solo ViolinJ.S.Bach

Bach Partita for solo violin No.3 in E major, BWV 1006 3.Gavotte en rondeau Itzhak Perlman
Gavotte from Partita No. 3 in E major, BWV 1006, for Solo ViolinJ.S.Bach

In the DyDo Blend Coffee commercial “Let’s Go Elegantly,” Ken Yasuda, Arata Iura, and Shinnosuke Mitsushima pilot a spaceship.

The ad features “Gavotte” from J.S.

Bach’s Partita No.

3 in E major, BWV 1006, a piece by the famous German composer.

The violin’s graceful, refined melody perfectly matches the commercial’s theme and leaves a strong impression.

Although a piano line can also be heard in the CM, the original piece is for solo violin.

If you’d like to enjoy an elegant afternoon tea time with your coffee, why not choose this piece?

Cello Suite No. 1 in G major, BWV 1007 (Unaccompanied)J.S.Bach

A performance by Pablo Casals from Catalonia, Spain.

Casals was the leading figure who brought the Cello Suites for solo cello to worldwide recognition.

The work is believed to date from Bach’s Köthen period, and a manuscript copy by his wife, Anna Magdalena, survives.

English Suite No. 2 in A minor, BWV 807J.S.Bach

The reason why they are called English is unknown.

It is also said that they were written for a certain noble Englishman.

Compared to the French Suites, they give the impression of being solid and well-rounded pieces.

They require a certain level of performance technique, but their vibrant, dynamic character is very appealing.

Cantata “Be quiet, stop chattering” BWV 211J.S.Bach

Bach (1685-1750) Kaffeekantate BWV 211 – Harnoncourt
Cantata “Be quiet, stop chattering” BWV 211J.S.Bach

A performance conducted by Nikolaus Harnoncourt.

A secular cantata affectionately known as the Coffee Cantata.

With lyrics by Picander, it features an unusually secular theme for Bach: a stubborn father trying to persuade his daughter to give up the fashionable coffee.

Christmas OratorioJ.S.Bach

Bach – Christmas Oratorio, BWV 248
Christmas OratorioJ.S.Bach

It’s a piece composed to be performed in churches during the Christmas season.

It’s a large-scale work of about two and a half hours.

Beginning with brilliant percussion and chorus, it combines a Christmas-like brightness with a dignity characteristic of Christianity.

The Sinfonia at the beginning of Part II is a well-known piece.

St Matthew PassionJ.S.Bach

Bach: St. Matthew Passion, complete (1/2), Karl Richter (1958)
St Matthew PassionJ.S.Bach

A work set against the Passion of Christ.

It was premiered in 1727 at St.

Thomas Church.

Although Bach’s legacy was largely forgotten after his death, in 1829 Mendelssohn performed this piece, bringing it to wide public attention.

Goldberg VariationsJ.S.Bach

The goldberg variations (1/5) (1955) complete by Glenn Gould
Goldberg VariationsJ.S.Bach

Bach himself titled the work “Aria with diverse variations for a harpsichord with two manuals.” Glenn Gould’s performances of this piece are rendered with his own unique interpretation, diverging from traditional ornamentation practices.

Yet their ineffable allure has become legendary in the classical world, attracting fans around the globe.

There are recordings from 1955 and 1981, and the striking contrast between them—almost as if played by entirely different pianists—is one of the key points to listen for.