The Six Unaccompanied Cello Suites by J.S. Bach are among the most iconic of classical music works. They have been featured in concerts and commercials alike, transcribed for a diverse array of instruments, and interpreted by every style of music imaginable, from swing to electronic. For all their popularity, we know very little about the genesis of these works. There is no autograph manuscript and no clarity about the chronology of their creation and what might have drawn Bach to writing so extensively for an instrument that was not viewed as a solo instrument of his time. The Suites were unknown until well into the 18th century and did not gain prominence until cellist Pablo Casals introduced them to 20th century audiences.
This fall, all six Cello Suites will be performed over three nights in Salem State’s intimate Recital Hall. Each concert will include a thirty-minute pre-concert lecture by Peter Sheckman beginning at 6:45 pm. Concerts will begin at 7:30 pm.
Monday, September 19
Suites No. 1 and 2
Bruce Coppock, cellist
Monday, October 24
Suites No. 3 and 4
Eleanor Blake, cellist
Monday, November 21
Suites No. 5 and 6
Velléda Miragias, cellist
Tickets are $15 general/$10 seniors and FREE for all students (with student ID) and people under 18.
