close

Bach, Johann Sebastian : Englische Suiten Nr.1 Bourree I-II

Work Overview

Music ID : 22552
Instrumentation:Piano Solo 
Genre:bourre
Total Playing Time:5 min 30 sec
Copyright:Public Domain

Commentary (1)

Author : Ooi, Kazurou

Last Updated: April 1, 2024
[Open]
Note: This article is automatically translated from the original Japanese text. The author of the original work did not supervise this translation.

First, the two bourrées should be played at the same tempo. While some performers intentionally vary the tempos of the two, considering the two bourrées as a single piece creates contrast and adds interest.

These two bourrées proceed almost entirely in two voices. While both voices are important, particular attention should be paid to sections where the interval between the left and right hands becomes a sixth, such as in measure 9 of Bourrée 1. What to pay attention to is playing the upper voice louder (reducing the volume of the lower voice). By subtly balancing the left and right hands, the resulting sound quality gains transparency. Avoid playing the two voices at the same volume.

The left hand in Bourrée 2 should, if possible, be played staccato or with a dry sound quality. It is desirable for it to sound restless and anxious, rather than being sung legato. Try to portray Bourrée 1 vividly with a relatively loud volume, and Bourrée 2 with contrast, depicting a mysterious and anxious mood using mp, p, and pp.

Writer: Ooi, Kazurou