Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach, composer Johann Sebastian Bach’s son, once said: “The music of my father has higher intentions, it’s not supposed to fill the ear, but to make your heart move”.
My dearest J,
You told me the other day that you enjoy listening to purely instrumental pieces when it comes to classical music. So far I have only shared with you songs with vocals in them, in addition to the other instruments. I therefore thought it was time to bring to you a purely instrumental piece.
Johann Sebastian Bach wrote a multitude of concertos, and this piece is the 2. adagio from his concerto in D minor (BWV 974). This version in particular though, is an arrangement for cello and piano written by Israeli cellist Mischa Maisky. Accompanying him is his own daughter, pianist Lily Maisky.
The cello is my favourite instrument by far. Its tone is warm, its depth is rich, yet it can sustain a beautiful melody much like a violin, without sounding “screechy”, for lack of better words. The cello, combined with Bach’s beautiful music, does indeed do more than fill the ear. I hope it makes your heart move as well.
Your friend.
J.S Bach: Concerto in D minor, BWV 974, 2. Adagio (Arr. for cello and piano by Mischa Maisky)
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