Gigue, BWV 1004. Johann Sebastian Bach (1685-1750) By Estelle Bertrand In five movements, Johann Sebastian Bach's "Partita for solo violin no. 2", BWV 1004, in D minor, follows an ordered pattern according to the following alternation: slow, lively, slow, lively, slow. In AABB form, the Gigue, located in fourth position, precedes the monumental Chaconne which, by itself, lasts longer than the first four movements of this partita. Some researchers have suggested that this work is a tribute to Bach's first wife, Maria Barbara, who died in 1720. For the performer, this gigue combines several major difficulties because, although it is written for a monodic instrument, it is inhabited by a hidden polyphony. It is therefore not an exercise in style or dexterity as the continuous sequence of eighth notes might falsely suggest! The lightness of the musical discourse and the breathing combined with a round sound will be a good basis for a successful interpretation, and an attempt to touch the genius of the Cantor of Leipzig.