Concerto in A Minor, BWV 1041, for violin and piano (Galamian); Johann Sebastian Bach

Concerto in A minor, BWV 1041 for violin and piano by Johann Sebastian Bach

Edited by Ivan Galamian. Published by International

Johann Sebastian Bach (1685-1750) was a German composer of the Baroque period and widely considered one of the greatest composers in the Western canon. He carefully studied the work of his forebears and contemporaries, incorporating intricate counterpoint and harmonic innovations into a sophisticated style that represents the zenith of the Baroque tradition. Though he wrote predominantly religious music-including several passions and over 200 cantatas-he is most celebrated today for his profoundly moving instrumental music, including concertos, suites, and sonatas, including many for strings-such as his Cello Suites and Sonatas and Partitas for violin.

Bach took interest in the concerto form during his Cothen period, when he intensely studied the works of Vivaldi and Corelli. Three violin concertos survive, including this Concerto in A minor, BWV 1041. The first movement is set in ritornello form; the second movement is defined by harmonic variation, anchored by an ostinato pattern in the bass. The finale has a dance-like energy, with striking bariolage figures in the solo violin. Since its rediscovery in the 19th century, it has become more popular with violinists. Intermediate-advanced level, Grade 4.