BWV 787-801 Originally designed as a useful teaching tool for the guitar student/teacher, this collection of "fantasia" otherwise known as Sinfonia by Bach, are the continuation of his Keyboard Invention Series, whereby the master illustrates writing for 3 voices or "parts". As the collection was edited, it became clear that, as a teacher's aid, it was invaluable. The arranger is quoted, "The purpose of this book is many-fold; the introduction of classical guitar, the ability to read and interpret music and rhythm, to introduce more distant keys to the guitarist, to introduce a reasonable attempt towards ensemble work, facilitate a complete learning of the fret-board and to do all of this in a highly musical context. The music of Johann Sebastian Bach and the cantabile nature of this particular set of work remains very well suited to this ultimate aim. All of the basics of sound classical guitar technique will come to play, but most importantly, the guitarist will learn to perform with others. I believe that this ranked highest in my personal motivation for the publication of this book....My largest hope is that this book introduces the guitarist to some of the larger possibilities for their chosen instrument." The pieces are vigorous at tempo, presenting one challenge after another. Commonsensically arranged for 3 guitars, each piece is thoughtfully mapped out, leaving the entire piece intact, whereby each guitarist, playing a single line, at one time or another shares a heavy technical burden. Fully fingered and marked, all guitarists, including teachers, will find this an invaluable source of learning, technique, and the ability to play in an ensemble environment. |
