Dance and the Music of J. S. Bach

Dance and the Music of J. S. Bach
Author: Meredith Little
Publisher: Indiana University Press
Total Pages: 352
Release: 2009-01-27
Genre: Music
ISBN: 0253013720
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A unique study of dance forms and rhythms in the Baroque composer’s repertoire. Stylized dance music and music based on dance rhythms pervade Bach’s compositions. Although the music of this very special genre has long been a part of every serious musician’s repertoire, little has been written about it. The original edition of this book addressed works that bore the names of dances—a considerable corpus. In this expanded version of their practical and insightful study, Meredith Little and Natalie Jenne apply the same principles to the study of a great number of Bach’s works that use identifiable dance rhythms but do not bear dance-specific titles. Part I describes French dance practices in the cities and courts most familiar to Bach. The terminology and analytical tools necessary for discussing dance music of Bach’s time are laid out. Part II presents the dance forms that Bach used, annotating all of his named dances. Little and Jenne draw on choreographies, harmony, theorists’ writings, and the music of many seventeenth- and eighteenth-century composers in order to arrive at a model for each dance type. Additionally, in Appendix A all of Bach’s named dances are listed in convenient tabular form; included are the BWV number for each piece, the date of composition, the larger work in which it appears, the instrumentation, and the meter. Appendix B supplies the same data for pieces recognizable as dance types but not named as such. More than ever, this book will stimulate both the musical scholar and the performer with a new perspective at the rhythmic workings of Bach’s remarkable repertoire of dance-based music.

Choral-Orchestral Repertoire

Choral-Orchestral Repertoire
Author: Jonathan D. Green
Publisher: Rowman & Littlefield
Total Pages: 747
Release: 2019-12-05
Genre: Music
ISBN: 1442244674
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Choral-Orchestral Repertoire: A Conductor’s Guide, Omnibus Edition offers an expansive compilation of choral-orchestral works from 1600 to the present. Synthesizing Jonathan D. Green’s earlier six volumes on this repertoire, this edition updates and adds to the over 750 oratorios, cantatas, choral symphonies, masses, secular works for large and small ensembles, and numerous settings of liturgical and biblical texts for a wide variety of vocal and instrumental combinations. Each entry includes a brief biographical sketch of the composer, approximate duration, text sources, performing forces, available editions, and locations of manuscript materials, as well as descriptive commentary, a discography, and a bibliography. Unique to this edition are practitioner’s evaluations of the performance issues presented in each score. These include the range, tessitura, and nature of each solo role and a determination of the difficulty of the choral and orchestral portions of each composition. There is also a description of the specific challenges, staffing, and rehearsal expectations related to the performance of each work. Choral-Orchestral Repertoire is an essential resource for conductors and students of conducting as they search for repertoire appropriate to their needs and the abilities of their ensembles.

Johann Sebastian Bach

Johann Sebastian Bach
Author: A. Pirro
Publisher: Prabhat Prakashan
Total Pages: 313
Release: 2021-01-01
Genre: Fiction
ISBN:
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Delve into the life and genius of Johann Sebastian Bach with "Johann Sebastian Bach" by A. Pirro, a captivating biography that illuminates the enduring legacy of one of classical music's greatest composers. Step into the world of 18th-century Germany and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Bach's life, from his humble beginnings in a family of musicians to his rise as a towering figure of the Baroque era. Through meticulous research and vivid storytelling, A. Pirro paints a compelling portrait of Bach's personal and professional journey, offering new insights into the man behind the music. Themes of creativity, passion, and perseverance resonate throughout the narrative as Pirro explores Bach's prolific output and profound impact on the world of music. From his masterful compositions for organ and keyboard to his sacred choral works and orchestral masterpieces, Bach's genius shines through in every note, leaving an indelible mark on the history of music. Character analysis delves into the complexities of Bach's personality, revealing the man behind the music as a devoted family man, a tireless worker, and a deeply spiritual soul. Through Pirro's nuanced portrayal, readers gain a deeper understanding of Bach's motivations, struggles, and triumphs, as he navigates the challenges of life as a musician in 18th-century Germany. The overall tone and mood of the biography are one of reverence and admiration, as Pirro celebrates Bach's unparalleled contributions to the world of music and the enduring beauty of his compositions. From the soaring melodies of the Brandenburg Concertos to the intricate counterpoint of the Well-Tempered Clavier, "Johann Sebastian Bach" offers a captivating journey through the life and work of a musical genius. Critically acclaimed for its depth of research and engaging narrative style, "Johann Sebastian Bach" has earned praise from readers and critics alike for its insightful portrayal of one of history's greatest composers. Its blend of biography, musical analysis, and historical context makes it a must-read for anyone interested in the life and work of Johann Sebastian Bach. Whether you're a seasoned music lover or new to the world of classical music, "Johann Sebastian Bach" offers a fascinating glimpse into the life and legacy of one of music's most iconic figures. Join A. Pirro on a journey through Bach's world and discover the timeless beauty of his music. Don't miss your chance to explore the life and genius of Johann Sebastian Bach with "Johann Sebastian Bach" by A. Pirro. Order your copy today and experience the magic of Bach's music like never before.