J. S. Bach - Keyboard Concerto in E major, BWV 1053 (Transcribed for Cello and Strings)

Cellists are often drawn to Bach’s concerto repertoire, and this arrangement brings one of his most attractive keyboard concertos into the cello’s range. Bach’s E major Keyboard Concerto, BWV 1053, is a bright and expressive work, with graceful outer movements and a particularly harmonically adventurous slow movement.

This cello version is transposed to D major and is based on the reconstructed oboe concerto version associated with material from Cantatas BWV 169 and BWV 49. Movements 1 and 2 draw from BWV 169, while the third movement is connected with BWV 49. The transposition allows the solo writing to lie naturally on the cello while preserving the character, elegance, and harmonic richness of Bach’s music.

This set includes the full score, solo cello part, and orchestra parts. It is suitable for advanced students, college ensembles, chamber orchestras, and cellists looking for a substantial Bach concerto transcription beyond the most familiar repertoire.

ASTA level: 3