We have a collection of 2 arrangements for Johann Sebastian Bach - Bourrée BWV 996
Why is Bach's Bourrée BWV 996 particularly cherished by classical guitarists despite being composed for lute? Learn!
Who's behind the notes? Discover Johann Sebastian Bach: Master of Baroque Music
Johann Sebastian Bach's Lute Suite in E minor, BWV 996, is a remarkable piece of music in the Baroque repertoire. Here are some interesting facts about this composition:
Instrumentation: Despite its name, the Lute Suite, BWV 996, is not exclusively written for the lute. Bach composed it for the Laute (lute) and Cembalo (harpsichord). This dual instrumentation allows for variations in performance, as it can be played on either instrument or both simultaneously.
Baroque Dance Suite: Like many of Bach's works, BWV 996 is structured as a Baroque dance suite. It typically consists of several movements, each named after a different dance form of the era, such as Allemande, Courante, Bourrée, Sarabande, and Gigue.
Prelude: The suite begins with a Prelude that serves as an introductory piece. This Prelude is famous for its intricate arpeggios and is considered a challenging piece to master for lute or harpsichord players.
Unusual Tuning: The Lute Suite BWV 996 features an unusual tuning for the lute, known as the "Baroque lute tuning." This tuning differs from the more common Renaissance lute tuning and allows for a unique sound and technical possibilities in performance.
Alternate Movements: Bach composed alternative versions of some movements within BWV 996. For example, he provided alternative versions of the Bourrée and the Sarabande, which showcase Bach's compositional flexibility and the possibility for performers to choose the version they prefer.
Manuscript: The only surviving manuscript of BWV 996 is believed to have been written by Bach's second wife, Anna Magdalena Bach, in the early 1720s. This manuscript, known as the "Anna Magdalena Bach Notebook," contains various works by Bach, including this suite.
Lute Harpsichord: Bach was known to have composed for a unique keyboard instrument known as the "Lautenwerk" or lute-harpsichord. It was designed to imitate the sound of the lute and was used for some of Bach's lute music, including BWV 996.
Stylistic Influence: Bach's music is known for its profound influence on subsequent composers, and BWV 996 is no exception. The suite's rich harmonic progressions and contrapuntal writing have had a lasting impact on the development of Western classical music.
Modern Revival: The Lute Suite in E minor, BWV 996, regained popularity in the 20th century as part of the broader revival of interest in Baroque music. Musicians and lutenists have since performed and recorded this piece, further cementing its place in the classical music canon.
Interpretation: One of the intriguing aspects of performing BWV 996 is the opportunity for interpretation. Musicians can add their own ornamentations, dynamics, and nuances to the piece, making each performance a unique experience.
Bach's Lute Suite in E minor, BWV 996, continues to captivate both performers and audiences with its beauty, complexity, and historical significance in the world of Baroque music.