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Johann Sebastian Bach

Brandenburg Concerto No. 3* 

Born: March 31, 1685, Eisenach, Germany

Died: July 28, 1750 (age 65 years), Leipzig, Germany

Children: Johann Christian Bach, Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach,

Siblings: Johann Jacob Bach, Maria Salome Bach

Height: 5′ 11″

Spouse: Anna Magdalena Bach (m. 1721–1750), Maria Barbara Bach (m. 1707–1720)

Overview: Johann Sebastian Bach's Brandenburg Concerto No. 3 in G Major, BWV 1048, is one of the six Brandenburg Concertos, widely regarded as some of the greatest orchestral works of the Baroque era. These concertos were dedicated to Christian Ludwig, Margrave of Brandenburg-Schwedt, in 1721, although they were likely composed earlier. Each concerto showcases a different combination of instruments, displaying Bach’s masterful understanding of orchestration and his ability to bring out the unique qualities of each instrument.

Structure: The Brandenburg Concerto No. 3 is written for three violins, three violas, three cellos, and a basso continuo, creating a rich and vibrant texture. The piece is structured in two movements, with the first being a lively Allegro and the second, unusually, consisting of just a single chord, often followed by a brief cadenza or a concluding Presto. This unique structure allows the performers to highlight their virtuosity and creativity.

Musical Highlights: The first movement is characterized by its energetic interplay between the different string groups, creating a lively and engaging musical conversation. The second movement’s brevity provides a moment of contrast before the final burst of energy in the concluding Presto. The work exemplifies the Baroque style, with its intricate counterpoint, rhythmic drive, and the balanced conversation between the instruments.

Historical Context: Bach’s Brandenburg Concertos were not widely known during his lifetime, but they have since become some of his most celebrated compositions. The concertos were composed during Bach’s time in Köthen, where he had access to an exceptional group of musicians, allowing him to experiment with different instrumental combinations and textures.

Significance: Brandenburg Concerto No. 3 is a brilliant example of Bach's genius in blending individual instrumental voices into a cohesive whole. It remains a staple of the Baroque repertoire and is beloved by audiences and performers alike for its joyful spirit and technical brilliance.

  • Boyd, Malcolm. Bach: The Brandenburg Concertos. Cambridge University Press, 1993.

  • Schulenberg, David. Music of the Baroque. Oxford University Press, 2001.

  • Christoph Wolff. Johann Sebastian Bach: The Learned Musician. W.W. Norton & Company, 2000.

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