J.S. BACH: "Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring" in Major & Minor (arr. Hall)

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ABOUT THIS BOOK: “Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring” in Major & Minor (8 pages) presents two rich, romantic-style concert arrangements of Bach’s famous chorale setting from Cantata No. 147. The most well-known piano version, by Myra Hess, is a literal transcription from the cantata, which not only presents several awkward and difficult technical challenges, but can easily sound dry and technical on the modern piano. Hall’s first arrangement in D-flat major is refreshingly different and original and less difficult to play than Hess’ version, making it more accessible to pianists by using more idiomatic fingerings and employing all five black keys. The second setting presents the same rich, romantic-style concert arrangement but in D minor instead of D-flat major. This minor-key version is strikingly expressive and original, which is guaranteed to mesmerize performers and listeners. Both major and minor-key arrangements of Bach’s famous Jesu are ideal for the teaching studio and concert hall for all grades from the intermediate through concert level.