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Viola

6/21/2016

 
by Rebecca Cochran
 
According to Johann Forkel who penned the first biography of Bach in 1802, “In musical parties, Bach took pleasure in playing the viola. With this instrument he was in the centre of harmony, whence he could best hear and enjoy it on both sides."
 
Bach understood the potential of the viola. In his orchestral works, the viola part is as important as the other string parts. In the 6th Brandenburg Concerto, the violins are completely absent.
 
There is much speculation as to why Bach chose to omit the violin from this and other works. One theory is that Bach wished to upset the musical status quo by giving the violas, typically played by servants and other “lesser” individuals, a more important role.
 
I cannot help but be proud of the fact that my favorite composer, way back in 1721, was a proponent of equal rights!
Roger Parton link
6/25/2016 12:07:08 am

Wonderful site! I love it! Just one small thing.. Webern did not study with Heinrich Isaac, who died in 1517! Rather, he did his doctoral thesis on the work of this Flemish master composer. :)

Rebecca Cochran
6/25/2016 11:36:05 am

Roger,

Thanks so much for your comment on “My Year of Bach.” What you pointed out is a big thing…not a “small" thing!

Apparently, my research was a bit hasty. I have corrected my post to state that Webern studied with noted musicologist, Guido Adler at Vienna University.

Thank you for setting the record straight!


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    My Year of Bach.

    This is an experiment.
    I love Bach: listening to Bach; playing Bach (alone or with others); discovering Bach; learning from Bach; sharing Bach.

    ​I need Bach in my daily life.

    ​So, for 2016, I'm challenging myself to write a short daily post about Bach. Come along for the ride, if you're so inclined. Let's listen, share and learn together!

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