| 40932 | BRANDENBURG CONCERTO NO. 6 IN Bb, BWV 1051: Allegro (SANDRA DACKOW'S EXPRESSIVE GEMS) |
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| Bach, Johann Sebastian (Ed. Dackow) |  Score
 mp3 audio
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| Category: String Orchestra |
| Grade: Difficult |
| Instrumentation: str=3.3.3-3.3.3 |
| Comments: Unsimplified and uncut; edited with bowings, fingerings, and detailed performance notes by Sandra Dackow. |
| Description: The six Brandenburg Concerti are each unique in instrumentation. Brandenburg Concerto No. 6 in B flat has often been the overlooked orphan in the set, with esoteric instrumentation that does not lend itself to modern established groups. While the famous (and favorite) No. 3 arranges the orchestra in expanded layers, No. 6 is written for two violas, two viola da gambas, cello continuo, keyboard continuo, and bass, Bach chose not to include violins at all. For this edition, the viola da gamba parts have been re-written into treble clef - same notes, same range but now presented as violin I and violin II; this brings the concerto to all the violinists who have never had the opportunity to interact with it. These are essentially harmonic backup parts and are not difficult. Because the parts are not busy and the notes are short, they will not likely cover the violas.
We can take our cue from Brandenburg Concerto No. 3, presented every which way today: from one on a part to huge numbers of players. The ritornellos in Brandenburg Concerto No. 6 can be presented with everyone, while the solo episodes can be presented with fewer players, or one on a part. We love this work because it withstands all these possible approaches and still delights us. Offered here is an opportunity to bring the rollicking final movement of Brandenburg No. 6 to student and adult groups of all kinds without simplifying or changing its essence.
What a party piece! The orchestra earns a merit badge in counterpoint, and viola jokes become meaningless. This magnificent concerto, so long in the shadows, will reward everyone who dives into its mysteries. |