Double Violin Concerto (Bach)
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The Concerto for Two Violins in D Minor, BWV 1043, is perhaps one of the most famous works by J.S. Bach and considered among the best examples of the work of the late Baroque period. He wrote it in Leipzig sometime between 1730 and 1731, most likely for the Leipzig Collegium Musicum, of which he was the director. It also exists in an arrangement for two harpsichords, transposed into C minor (BWV 1062). In addition to the two soloists, the concerto is scored for strings and basso continuo.
The concerto is characterized by the subtle yet expressive relationship between the violins throughout the work. The musical structure of this piece uses fugal imitation and much counterpoint. Though it starts in D Minor and ends in D Major, the first movement switches keys every few measures.
The concerto contains three movements:
- Vivace
- Largo ma non tanto
- Allegro
Perhaps of all Bach's chamber works, the Double Concerto has best succeeded in winning historically inexperienced listeners over to a true appreciation both of Bach and the Baroque Era. Few works can match the fugal 1st movement and canonic finale from a standpoint of sheer energy and overwhleming dynamic drive. The quintessence of melodic tonal beauty is potently distilled in the slow (middle) movement as well.
[edit] Performances and recordings
There are many performances and recordings of this piece. It is also included in the Suzuki Method for the violin. Many performances have been posted on YouTube which can be viewed for no charge.
