Johann Sebastian Bach

Prelude in B minor

The Prelude In B Minor, BWV 869, orchestrated for string orchestra by Leopold Stokowski, originates from Johann Sebastian Bach's (1685-1750) Well-Tempered Clavier (Das Wohltemperirte Clavier), Book I, composed in 1722, a landmark collection. Bach's closing Prelude In B Minor is among the most intricate and expansive in the set. Leopold Stokowski (1882-1977), renowned for his lush orchestral reimaginings of Bach, later arranged this Prelude for strings in the early-to-mid 20th century, clothing the keyboard writing in a warm, sustained sonority that reflects the Romantic orchestral tradition while preserving Bach's structure. Although a specific premiere for this transcription is not firmly documented, Stokowski regularly performed such Bach orchestrations with major ensembles, and recordings--particularly those associated with his long collaboration with the Philadelphia Orchestra--played a significant role in bringing these adaptations to a wide public. Today Stokowski's Bach transcriptions, including the Prelude In B Minor, remain occasional concert works and recording favorites. A count of 8.8.5.5.5 strings are included in the set. Reprint edition.