Description

As Kapellmeister in Cöthen, Johann Sebastian Bach devoted himself primarily to instrumental music. Among the works he composed during this period were his Sonatas for violin and obbligato harpsichord, BWV 1014–1019, which have been preserved as a complete cycle. These sonatas present an equal challenge to the violinist and harpsichordist/pianist, and together with Bach's flute and viola da gamba sonatas, they laid the foundation for the modern duo sonata. In contrast to the typical basso continuo accompaniment, the keyboard part in these sonatas is independent, giving each work a distinctive profile. This Urtext edition is largely based on manuscript copies made by Bach's son-in-law Altnickol, supplemented by additional sources, and includes text-critical commentary.