The Brandenburg Concerti and other Instrumental Works
On Tuesday, July 16, 2019, Gil Harel continued with the second lecture in his four-part Bach series.
Though he spent most of his career in service to Lutheran churches, Bach spent an eventful 6 years at the court of Anhalt-Köthen. It was in this Calvinist principality that the composer would write some of his most celebrated instrumental works, including a collection of six concerti dedicated to the Margrave of Brandenburg. In these works, the composer redefines the baroque concerto grosso, pushing the boundaries of what instrumental ensembles could be expected to play in the early 1700s. Lamentably for Bach, this was not a lucrative venture, and these widely-acknowledged masterpieces would collect dust on the shelves of history until nearly 100 years after his death. Other works to be discussed include the Chaconne in D minor for solo violin, and the Italian Concerto.
About the Presenter
Gil Harel (PhD, Brandeis University) is a musicologist and music theorist whose interests include styles ranging from western classical repertoire to jazz. Previously, he has served on the faculty at CUNY Baruch College, where he was awarded the prestigious "Presidential Excellence Award for Distinguished Teaching", as well as the Southwestern University of Finance and Economics in Chengdu, China. Currently, he teaches at Naugatuck Valley Community College, where he was presented with the "Merit Award for Exemplary Service to the College." At NVCC, Dr. Harel conducts the college chorale, a cappella ensemble, teaches music history and theory, and serves as musical director of theater productions. Outside of teaching, he enjoys staying active as a pianist and vocalist.