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La Follia performs one of the final masterworks by the greatest composer of the Baroque period. Inspired by a theme given to him by no less than King Frederick the Great of Prussia, Bach composes music epitomizing the acme of musical Art. Despite its ingenuity and complexity, it is far from being dry and academic. It is as always with Bach music of deep spirituality.
In 1747, J.S. Bach, at the height of his compositional powers, visited the court of King Frederick the Great, where one of his sons was employed. The King, an enlightened Renaissance man and a gifted flautist and composer, was delighted to receive the old Bach. The King presented Bach with a complex theme of his own composition, and asked Bach to improvise on it on several of his fortepianos. This Bach did to the amazement of all.
Perhaps further inspired by the excellent theme, Bach, upon his return to Leipzig, composed a set of works entirely based on the Royal theme. Many were in the form of puzzles. The work culminated in a trio sonata for flute (Frederick's instrument), violin, and continuo (probably fortepiano, again Fred's favored keyboard instrument). Bach called the work the "Musical Offering" and dedicated it to Frederick, knowing that the monarch could fully appreciate the musical Art created from the beautiful theme.
Despite the greatness of this work, it is rarely performed in its entirety. But with this concert, you will have the opportunity to do just that. La Follia will explain the solution to the musical puzzles, so that you like Frederick can appreciate Bach's compositional mastery as well as being entertained by the transcendent music.
The Artists
Featured are Go Yamamoto and Alan Austin on Baroque violins, Marcus McGuff on Baroque flute, Jane Leggiero on Baroque cello, and Keith Womer on fortepiano.
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LocationFirst Presbyterian Church
8001 Mesa Drive
Austin, TX 78759
United States
Categories
| Kid Friendly: No |
| Dog Friendly: No |
| Non-Smoking: Yes! |
| Wheelchair Accessible: Yes! |
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Contact
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