Bach, Six Cello Suites (1007-1012) arr. for Viola by Katims (IMC)
Experience one of the greatest masterpieces in the solo string repertoire with Six Cello Suites, BWV 1007–1012 by Johann Sebastian Bach, expertly arranged for viola by Milton Katims and published by International Music Company. This highly respected edition adapts Bach's complete Six Suites for Solo Cello for the viola, allowing violists to explore these timeless masterpieces while taking full advantage of the instrument's warm, resonant tone.
Composed between 1717 and 1723, Bach's Six Cello Suites are among the most influential works ever written for an unaccompanied instrument. Their remarkable blend of lyrical melodies, implied counterpoint, expressive dance movements, and architectural brilliance has made them essential repertoire for generations of string players. Milton Katims, one of the twentieth century's foremost violists, created this transcription to preserve the spirit and musical integrity of the original works while making them idiomatic and rewarding for viola performance.
The collection provides a lifetime of musical and technical development, helping violists refine tone production, bow control, articulation, phrasing, intonation, string crossing, chordal playing, ornamentation, rhythmic precision, and musical independence. Each suite presents unique interpretive and technical challenges, making the edition an invaluable resource for students, teachers, and professional performers alike.
Suitable for intermediate to advanced violists, this collection is ideal for conservatory study, graded examinations, auditions, competitions, recitals, masterclasses, and concert performance. Published by International Music Company, this edition remains one of the most respected viola arrangements of Bach's monumental solo works.
Key Features:
- Published by International Music Company
- Music by Johann Sebastian Bach
- Arranged for viola by Milton Katims
- Complete Six Solo Cello Suites (BWV 1007–1012)
- One of the most important collections in the solo string repertoire
- Develops tone production, articulation, bow control, and phrasing
- Strengthens chordal playing, string crossing, and musical independence
- Suitable for intermediate to advanced violists
- Ideal for lessons, examinations, recitals, auditions, competitions, and conservatory study
- Essential addition to every serious violist's library
Musical Benefits:
- Develops advanced viola technique
- Improves Baroque style and interpretation
- Strengthens expressive phrasing and tonal control
- Builds confidence in solo performance
- Provides a lifetime of rewarding study and performance opportunities
