Taught by renowned cellist
Matt Haimovitz
In this course, master cellist and famed Bach interpreter Matt Haimovitz takes us in depth through the stormy and dramatic D-minor suite of J.S. Bach. From the pensive prélude to the emotionally-charged sarabande to the fiery gigue, Haimovitz brings us into his inner world as we learn the nuances of Bach interpretation.
Introduction
Matt Haimovitz welcomes you to the wonders of Bach's famed D minor suite.
I. Prélude
In this lesson, we learn about the history of the Bach cello suites. We also learn about shifting and how to bring out the unique voice-leading in Bach's music. Haimovitz illustrates the shape of the bass line as a way to guide our vision for the entire movement.
II. Allemande
In this lesson, we learn how to find the character of the movement as compared to the searching quality of the prélude. We focus on articulations, and Haimovitz encourages us to study the nuances of two notes slurred notes as opposed to longer bowings to increase the rhetorical power of our playing.
III. Courante
In this lesson, we learn how to choose a tempo based on the drama and raging character of this movement. We learn how to navigate the "controlled chaos" as Haimovitz puts it. We also explore how to play the chords in this movement, such as the famous triple stop, and how to balance them in such a way that the line continues uninhibited.
IV. Sarabande
In this lesson on the sarabande, which Haimovitz calls "the heart of the suite," we explore pulse. We learn about emphasis, which happens on the second as well as the first beat of the bar, and how bringing this out adds to the structural integrity of the work.
V. Menuet I and II
In this lesson, we learn about the role of the Menuets in all the suites to contrast and form a sort of relief from the emotional weight of the sarabande. Haimovitz also explored the differences in character between the two menuets, and what he calls the "childlike innocence of the D major menuet."
VI. Gigue
In this lesson, we explore the role of large intervallic leaps in creating a tumultuous, dramatic atmosphere. As Haimovitz explains, this movement needs great energy to produce a sense of theatre. We also learn how to balance the quick up bows to keep the musical momentum going.
Performance
Enjoy this performance of the D minor suite in it's entirety
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Unlock Course →Matt Haimovitz is one of the most distinguished cellists of his generation. He has soloed with the world's major orchestras and is widely considered a pioneer of the cello, pushing the boundaries of both repertoire and performance practice.
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