Partita no. 4 d major BWV 828

Bach’s Six Partitas form what is presumably the most famous and challenging collection of suites in music history. Bach was aware of the weightiness of his cycle as he initially had these multi-movement partitas, composed in Leipzig between 1726 and 1730, published in individual editions. This culminated in their publication in an anthology that proudly sports the opus number “1” in 1731.

Their diversity of forms knows no bounds and the musical texture is infused with the most ingenious counterpoint, but at the same time performers will not miss out on the enjoyment of virtuosic playing in any way. G. Henle Publishers presents this magnum opus in a revised Urtext edition that consults the original editions as well as autograph sources while also extensively documenting the numerous entries in correction copies from Bach’s circle.

In keeping with Bach’s model, the 4th Partita, in D major, is available both in the collective volume and in a handy, inexpensive separate edition that is ideal for advanced learners and for self-study. The helpful fingerings by pianist William Youn are notable for their particular ergonomics, and carefully follow the phrasing and sense of Bach’s music.

Interesting deviations in the different sources are made easily accessible in footnotes or in square brackets in the musical text itself. As a bonus, this edition also contains a version of the Courante with unusually rich ornamentation.