< Previous Partita I BWV 1002 Partita I BWV 1002 This first Partita, called the Suite in B minor, consists of 5 ancient dances each of which is repeated through a variation of equal proportion in phrasing and tempo. This is important to take into account when performing the work. That is to say, the “Doubles” are actually a direct variation of each Dance and could be performed as a single piece. They should therefore be conceived and played in the same spirit. ALLEMANDE The first Dance is an Allemande - of German origin as the name suggests. It is in moderate tempo or even a little slower and its 32nd notes are lightly accented relative to the dotted 16th note. To establish its rhythm, very accurately notated by JS Bach, it is helpful to begin working at e = 63 which will obviously be «forgotten» during the final interpretation. Full and sustained tone, calm and steady vibrato on every note. The few trills should be slow and stop at the tip of the bow. DOUBLE The Double should be played at the same tempo (e = 63) calmly using the middle of the bow. Keep the same tempo until the end despite the flexibility of the phrasing. Partita I BWV 1002 COURANTE (Corrente) A fast Italian or French Dance q = 132, of a bright character, articulated here using martelé bowing, short and strong in the middle of the bow. Slight vibrato on every note. Again, ascending and descending motion is accompanied by slight changes of dynamic in the same direction. DOUBLE (Presto) q = 132 As before, this Double is in the same tempo as the dance (q = 132) and is played with a quick and short bow using the middle and especially with an extremely flexible wrist. Follow the markings and which indicate the interpretation of certain inner phrases that often correspond to repetitive phrases. Avoid awkward accelerations that are inappropriate to Bach’s style. Partita I BWV 1002 SARABANDE q = 58 DOUBLE q . = 70 A slow and serious dance showing a solemn side of JS Bach: q = 58 This piece should be played using the entire bow with a full sound and slow vibrato on each note. One should emphasize the phrasing indicated by the signs , just as the inflections of any spoken language. Just as the Sarabande is full and solemn in pace, its Double must remain simple and be played entirely détaché using the middle of the bow, with only the few nuances indicated, within a rather moderate dynamic: q . = 70 27 Next >