In the early 1720s, while serving in Köthen, Bach produced a series of innovative works that broke with previous conventions for exceptional instruments. Among these, the unaccompanied cello suites and viola da gamba sonatas elevated these two "humble" instruments, which had traditionally supported melodic instruments as continuo, to the role of soloists, showcasing their deep and rich sounds through extraordinary techniques. Additionally, in the gamba sonata, the harpsichord is given independent music rather than merely serving as a continuo, making it a masterpiece that anticipates later classical chamber music.
The sixth cello suite, written in the Italian style, is believed to have been composed for a five-string instrument. As a musician well-versed in Italian music, Bach may have been inspired to compose this suite for a richer-sounding five-string low instrument (such as the violoncello piccolo or viola pomposa) after encountering Vivaldi's concertos for the violoncello piccolo. These instruments, with thinner strings and smaller bodies than the cello, produce a light and brightly sonorous Italian sound.
Meanwhile, his sons, influenced by their father Bach, developed their individual styles, creating a new era that transitioned from Baroque to Classical. The gamba sonata by Emanuel Bach and the cello sonata by Christoph Bach, while similar in ensemble to their father's works, exhibit entirely different styles that reflect the gallant spirit of a new age.
The genius of the Bach family musicians lies not only in their originality but also in their extraordinary spirit that fills all who encounter their music with joyful excitement. What faces will they show us in Tokyo 2019?
Welcome to the Bach Family Concert
[Day Session]
Piccolo Cello + Harpsichord
J.S. Bach: Prelude in D Major from The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book II BWV 874
J.S. Bach: Unaccompanied Cello Suite No. 6 in D Major BWV 1012
J.C.F. Bach: Cello Sonata in A Major
J.S. Bach: Trio Sonata No. 5 in C Major BWV 529
[Evening Session]
Viola da Gamba + Harpsichord
J.S. Bach: Sonata for Viola da Gamba and Harpsichord No. 1 in G Major BWV 1027
C.P.E. Bach: Sonata for Viola da Gamba and Harpsichord in G Minor Wq 88
W.F. Bach: Fantasy in A Minor Falck 23
J.S. Bach: Sonata for Viola da Gamba and Harpsichord No. 2 in D Major BWV 1028
