Largo BWV 1005 (“Violin Sonata No. 3”) Johann Sebastian Bach (1685-1750) By Valérie Duchâteau www.valerieduchateau.com Written in four movements, Johann Sebastian Bach’s violin sonatas follow an ordered pattern according to the following alternation: lively, slow, lively, slow. The Sonata BWV 1005, in C major, is no exception to the rule. With its deeply expressive character and its key of F major, the largo, located in third position, contrasts with the fugue that precedes it, and provides a welcome relaxation. For the performer, these pieces combine several major difficulties because, although they are written for a monodic instrument, they are inhabited by an underlying polyphony. They should therefore not be approached as 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 on the genius of Bach.