Six Sonatas and Partitas for solo violin, BWV 1001-1006 by Johann Sebastian Bach
Edited by Henryk Szeryng. Published by Schott
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's Six Sonatas and Partitas for solo violin, BWV 1001-1006 were completed during his fruitful Cothen years leading up to 1720. The collection contains three sonatas (restrained "church sonatas" with fugal elements) and three partitas (essentially "dance" suites); however, Bach elevated both forms to a deeply emotional and reverent height, particularly in the stunning Chaconne. These works constitute some of the most outstanding and consequential works for the instrument. They are considered by many violinists to be the crowning glory and veritable Everest of the repertory-representing the greatest challenge and greatest reward solo violin music has to offer. They are widely considered to be one of most perfect set of pieces and continue to be enormously influential for performers and composers alike. Master level, Grade 6.
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