Joel Andrews - Seraphic Aurora: Masterworks of Johann Sebastian Bach

The composer Charles Gounod used this Prelude to accompany his well-known song, “Ave Maria”.

2. Partita No. 2 in D Minor (BWV 1004) for solo violin
Allemande - 2:37, Courante - 3:59, Sarabande - 4:15, Gigue - 2:24, Chaconne --15:02

This Partita for unaccompanied violin is a suite of four dances, followed by a Chaconne - a set of variations on a theme. This suite is thought to have been composed in honor of the passing of Bach’s beloved wife, Maria,  and is in the key of D, often associated with love. These variations have been  termed “a masterpiece of reason and passion”. The virtuoso violinist, Niccolo Paganini, performed these variations all over Europe and the renowned  Jascha Heifetz has recorded them. This Partita has been arranged for piano,  harpsichord and guitar. We hear it here in Mr. Andrews’ faithful transcription  for harp. It was performed at his Towne Hall debut concert. The harp provides a richness not quite possible on the more percussive piano or guitar.

3. Prelude No. 8 in E Flat Minor (BWV 853)  from The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book #1 (Adagio - 4:14)

This contemplative piece, with its free meter and rhythmic patterns, can lead the listener on an inner journey of reflective revelation.

With his 3 degrees in music and composition Mr. Andrews has become a leading master of the Art of Improvisation. The first one here is in classical style, while the 2nd is more impressionistic.