From Near Obscurity to Iconic Works: Bach’s Cello Suites

The six suites for unaccompanied cello by Johann Sebastian Bach—once dismissed as mere curiosities—are now revered as iconic works. They are performed worldwide by cellists of all ages, and they are moreover prominently used in pop culture such as film and television as well as in expressions of humanitarian advocacy. In this special Focus on the Humanities talk, Edward Klorman illustrates how and why Bach conceptualized this highly innovative music and tells the unlikely story of how the Cello Suites went from near obscurity to becoming the celebrated works that define the sound of the instrument. Parry Karp performs selections from the Cello Suites, showing how Bach created rich harmonies and counterpoint using a single instrument. 

The event will take place at Hamel Music Center, Collins Recital Hall, 740 University Ave.