Bach: Sämtliche Klavierwerke VII, Französische Suiten BWV 812–817 – Pietro Soraci

Though the title of “French” is commonly employed when referring to J. S. Bach’s Six Suites BWV 812-817, in fact they have few elements typical for the French style. Indeed, they are less “French” than many other works by Bach, and display many Italianate features. Written around 1722, these beautiful Suites had been probably intended for primarily recreational and pedagogical purposes, such as the goals set by Bach for his second wife Anna Magdalena and her keyboard practice. Decidedly French, instead, is the “French Overture”, published during Bach’s lifetime along with the Italian Concerto as the second volume of Bach’s celebrated Clavier-Übung. Together, these magnificent works display Bach at is lightest. There is no frivolity, though; just the joy of dancing, or rather of evoking the pleasure of dancing. Indeed, perhaps the most French trait of these works is precisely in their joie de vivre and in their refinement; they are like glasses of champagne, to be savoured by the knowledgeable with a unique delight.