Leipzig had a major role in the development of classical music, thanks to its most famous resident, Johann Sebastian Bach. The earlier half of the 1720s marked Bach’s final years in Köthen where he composed some of his most famous instrumental works. Following his appointment as the Thomaskantor in Leipzig, Bach settled there in 1724. In Leipzig, Bach continued to write instrumental music while expanding his harmonic language and structural construction. Following in the footsteps of Bach, musicians in the 19th century such as Mendelssohn and Schumann settled in Leipzig, paving a path for a young Norwegian to find his own voice. A native of Bergen, Edvard Grieg went to Leipzig to study at the conservatory. After his graduation in 1862, Grieg penned some of his most beloved songs and chamber music works. Undoubtedly influenced by his homeland, Grieg’s works showcase a strong affinity for Norwegian folklore while maintaining the classical structure and harmonies he had learnt from Leipzig.
Program:
Edvard Grieg (1843-1907)
Blåbær Li op.67, nr.3 (Haugtussa)
Elsk op.67, nr.5 (Haugtussa)
Jeg elsker deg op.5, nr.3
Sonate for cello og klaver op. 36
Zur Rosenzeit op.48, nr.5 (Sechs Lieder)
Svane op.25, nr.2
Bach, Johann Sebastian (1685-1750):
From solo sonatas for violin
Bach, Johann Sebastian: Concerto for harpsichord and strings in d minor, BWV 1052 (latter half of 1720s, manuscript from 1738)