CLXXX. BACH, J.S.: Sonata #2 in A Minor for Solo Violin, BWV 1003

CLXXX. BACH, J.S. (1685-1750)

Sonata #2 in A Minor for Solo Violin, BWV 1003 (1720)
1. Grave
2. Fuga
3. Andante
4. Allegro
Shunske Sato, violin
(24:35)

The Sonatas and Partitas for solo violin (BWV 1001-1006) are neatly divided into separate pieces -- a sonata in the style of the sonata de chiesa and a partita, with dance movement forms (allemande, courante, sarabande, etc.) …

This sonatas all follow the form: a slow, melismic first movement; followed by a fugue (usually the most technically difficult part); a slow movement; and a fast movement.

All four movements are delightful, exciting and -- in the case of the third movement here (in the relative major key of C Major) -- particularly wonderfully melodious music!

Sato plays a Baroque violin made in 1684.