Composer

:

John Corigliano

Genre

:

Chamber

Style

:

Fantasy

Compose Date

:

1996

First Performance

:

Aug 24, 1997

Average_duration

:

6:54

Fancy on a Bach Air is a composition for solo violin and string orchestra by American composer John Corigliano. It was composed in 1995 and premiered on March 14, 1996, by violinist Joshua Bell and the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra, conducted by David Zinman. The piece is divided into three movements, each of which is based on a different Bach composition. The first movement is a fantasy on the Prelude from Bach's Partita No. 3 in E major for solo violin. The second movement is a chaconne based on the Chaconne from Bach's Partita No. 2 in D minor for solo violin. The third movement is a fugue based on the Fugue from Bach's Sonata No. 1 in G minor for solo violin. Corigliano's Fancy on a Bach Air is a virtuosic work that showcases the technical abilities of the soloist. The first movement is marked by its fluidity and lyricism, with the solo violin soaring above the strings. The second movement is more introspective, with the soloist exploring the depths of the chaconne's variations. The third movement is a tour-de-force of counterpoint, with the soloist engaging in a lively dialogue with the orchestra. Throughout the piece, Corigliano pays homage to Bach while also infusing the music with his own contemporary style. The work is characterized by its intricate harmonies, rhythmic complexity, and use of extended techniques such as harmonics and glissandi. Fancy on a Bach Air has become a popular addition to the repertoire for solo violin and orchestra, and has been performed by numerous soloists and orchestras around the world. Its combination of virtuosity and musical depth make it a challenging and rewarding work for both performers and audiences alike.

More....