Concerto in A Minor

by J.S. Bach; arr. Brian Slawson

Medium/Advanced Concert Percussion

6 Players

Instrumentation: • Glockenspiel • Xylophone • Vibraphone • 3 marimbas*—(2) 4-octave, (1) low A *Two marimba players can also share a low A marimba if instruments are limited.

Harpsichord concerti were written throughout the Baroque era, particularly by J.S. Bach. However, this Allegro from Bach’s Concerto for 4 Harpsichords & Strings (BWV 1065) is based on Vivaldi’s Concerto for 4 Violins in B minor (RV 580). For one composer to “borrow” material from another during Bach’s time was considered a flattering gesture.

Mallet instruments have much in common with the attack and decay properties of harpsichords, making arrangements such as this a natural choice. Brian Slawson’s orchestrations bring this piece to life, and it will make an excellent addition to the repertoire of any percussion ensemble wishing to highlight a Baroque selection for mallet instruments.

This arrangement of Concerto in A Minor has been heard worldwide on the popular CD Bach on Wood, which helped garner Brian Slawson a Grammy nomination for “Best New Classical Artist.

In addition to the printed score you are receiving downloadable:

✅ Individual Parts
✅ Full Recording