Wednesday, March 12, 2014

Bach's Brandenburg Concertos

On Monday we introduced Bach’s orchestral output by discussing his circumstances surrounding their composition. During his time in Cöthen, Bach dedicated the previously-composed Brandenburg Concertos to the Margrave of Brandenburg at his request for music. Are you familiar with this work?
By going to this link, you can hear a performance of Bach’s Brandenburg Concertos in their entirety played by the Freiburg Baroque Orchestra.
 
Of this set of six concertos, all but the first contain the standard three movement structure of the time. Listen for a fast movement followed by a slow movement, and ending with a second fast movement in the final five concertos. Bach also varies the type of concerto in each, some containing solo instruments, while others strictly remaining orchestral without the use of a soloist. When using a soloist, listen as Bach creates a sort of dialogue between the soloist and ensemble, almost as if they are carrying on a conversation.
 
Do you enjoy Bach’s Brandenburg Concertos? What is your favorite of his orchestral pieces?