Piano & Co: Bach's keyboard universe

Johann Sebastian Bach composed seven pieces for solo lute; only two of them are expressly intended for the plucked instrument. The pieces played this time are not among them. However, all of these suites are among the most demanding in the entire lute literature. Bach knew the famous lutenist Silvius Leopold Weiss, who is believed to be the dedicatee. It is impossible to date the pieces, but they were probably written around 1740. They were likely intended for the lute piano, which was modern at the time. Bach owned two of these rare instruments. Not a single original lute piano has survived. The harpsichord-like wing is strung with gut strings, which produces a much softer sound. Bach's compositions for this instrument are mature masterpieces and reveal his creative engagement with the Italian school.