MP3 Pete Downes - Music for Guitar: Bach

Leading UK fusion guitarist's uniquely rhythmic performance of JS Bach lute suites. Traditional instrument, modern feel. A style of music known to stimulate learning and concentration

12 MP3 Songs
CLASSICAL: Bach, CLASSICAL: Baroque



Details:
"For me, Bach's music is like a river, a constant flow, occasionally changing note frequency, like travelling along a smooth flowing wide river into a narrow white-water gorge. A beautiful journey where the underlying 'groove' is constant with momentary pauses at the end of sections."

Better known in the jazz world for work with his trio 'PD3' and quartet with trumpeter Dick Pearce, and his trance-like recording Sea of Tranquility, Pete has spent the last two years studying pieces from the classical guitar repertoire, including Bach's Lute Suites which he has recorded for his latest release 'Music for Guitar: Bach'.

"I have been studying the techniques of the classical guitarist and combining them with my existing technique to produce my own hybrid method. I wanted to provide my own perspective on these pieces by using the rhythmic feel and intensity gained from playing more contemporary music styles.

"Although I have kept as close as possible to Bach's original notation - based on the Koonce edition - I have added what I hope is my own style by taking a highly rhythmic approach and minimising the rubato method of the romantic classical player. Pieces like the Fugue are played in strict tempo until the end of a section. This goes for many pieces presented here.

All of the pieces were performed on a Amalio Burguet Flamenco guitar rather than the mellower sounding classical guitar. "I felt the more immediate attack and brighter tone of a flamenco guitar suited Bach's lute pieces.

"I sincerely trust you enjoy listening to these pieces as much as I enjoyed recording them. Your feedback is very welcome."