Brandenburg Concertos, BWV 1046-1051
Johann Sebastian Bach
Work background
Researched classical background
Bach sent these six concertos to Christian Ludwig, Margrave of Brandenburg, in 1721. Each uses a different instrumental combination, making the group a survey of ensemble possibilities rather than six versions of the same design. Solo and collective roles continually change. The harpsichord is especially prominent in the Fifth, while the Sixth explores lower string colors without violins.
A listening guide
Choose two contrasting concertos and compare which instruments lead and which supply the recurring framework.
Listening suggestions are editorial guides to the music.
Forces: Different combinations of strings, winds, brass, harpsichord, and continuo
Composition: 1721 (dedicated manuscript)
The presentation manuscript was assembled in 1721 from works with earlier and differing origins.
This entry describes the musical work or cycle. Composition, premiere and publication dates describe different events. Performers and recordings can be explored through the external listening search.
Also known as: Six Concertos for Several Instruments
Date, title and version notes
The manuscript date does not establish when every movement was first composed.
Brandenburg Concertos - Bach
Work identity, chronology where stated, and the specific musical or historical context summarized in this entry. | Reviewed 2026-10-19
'Brandenburg' Concerto No. 6 in B-flat major - Bach
Work identity, chronology where stated, and the specific musical or historical context summarized in this entry. | Reviewed 2026-10-19
Sources for this work
Brandenburg Concertos - Bach
Work identity, chronology where stated, and the specific musical or historical context summarized in this entry. | Reviewed 2026-10-19
'Brandenburg' Concerto No. 6 in B-flat major - Bach
Work identity, chronology where stated, and the specific musical or historical context summarized in this entry. | Reviewed 2026-10-19
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