Baroque Performance Practice feat. Vijay Gupta and Bach's Chaconne

Martin Hello Martin and all in Community,

Fantastic choice for a session. I wanted to share some things for the guitar community and others. Abel Carlevaro Guitar Masterclass, Technique Analysis and Interpretation of: J.S Bach Chaconne (BMV 1004) Mel Bay Publications ECH 0714, Edition Chanterelle im Allegra Musikverlag.

Good source to have in your library.

A favorite of mine is Jascha Heifetz (gem, jewel, treasure) performance of Bach's Chaconne.

Here are a few quotes from Heifetz that I thought pertinent and of significance.                         

"We call Bach the Bible. I'm discovering and rediscovering new things."

"The ocean is never the same, always, always constantly changing, it gives you a chance to think"

On Practice,

"Many things are solved during your practicing; it may take a long time and it may be a very short time but suddenly things become clear. Then you're ready for the emergencies."

"Practice eventually becomes automatic but you have to get your hands your fingers in shape,

so, you know they just don't move without doing anything. It has to be coordinated right; first the finger then your left hand with your right hand that has to be synchronized. If one is faster than the other, or vice versa, not so good."

(Source RCAREDSEAL Legendary Visions, Heifetz In Performance, BMG Classics DVD 1971)

 Suggestions from me play the Theme daily on your instrument. (8 bars before bedtime)

choose a few variations for daily practice to cover technique, block chords, scale passage, arpeggios, Use as warm up. Go slow and the speed will come.

Best wishes and outcomes for all, Sincerely, Michael

Martin  I know it is night for you but not too late and this is relevant and timely. I take my “mental shower of Bach” before going to bed each night. I play the Prelude from the Suite for unaccompanied violoncello No.1 G major BWV 1007 using my “cello guitar” tuned to cello pitch. The edition I have settled on using is edited by Janos Starker ( Six Suites J.S. Bach). Published by Peer . I have edited it for guitar always using the bass clef . I truly believe the music holds as is on the cello tuned guitar and retains that depth of resonance.

This has been very helpful over the Pandemic time. A “mental shower”

for the joy of peace and calming beauty before sleep.

Be well. Michael