Johann Sebastian Bach. Partita BWV 1004

“We find in the Partita Na 2 in D minor BWV 1004 the traditional baroque dance suite setting (Allemande, Courante, Sarabande and Gige), enriched in this case by a monumental Ciaccona. Keystone to the Partita, but also to the whole collection, this chaconne has almost the exact length as all the other movements combined. Bach thoroughly applies his inventiveness throughout 32 variations on an ostinato base line, a number he would revisit years later with his Goldberg Variations. This Partita has been the subject of extensive speculation and analysis, particularly in what concerns the use of the golden section along its structure, but also in relation to the hidden presence, in filigree, along the Chaconne, of various themes traceable to chorales associated with Death and Resurrection, supporting the idea that this movement was conceived as the Tomb of Maria Barbara Bach.

Bach and the practice of transcription

Transcriptions and arrangements are an essential part of Bach’s catalogue. The arrangements made of other composers’ music, where his personal touch remains undeniably traceable, give us a good understanding of his open-mindedness, and are a well-founded source for our own adaptations. On the other hand, the transcription work based on his own pieces gives a precious testimony to how music was envisioned, at the time, as a living material, modifiable according to the musician’s desire.”