Bach, J S: French Suite No. 4 in E flat major, BWV815

Francesco Cera was born in Bologna, Italy, and studied organ and harpsichord under Luigi Ferdinando Tagliavini and later with Gustav Leonhardt. He is now one of Italy’s leading early music specialists, and is greatly admired as a performer for his extensive knowledge of styles and different musical expressions. He was member of the ensemble Il Giardino Armonico and since 1997 has been director of the Ensemble Arte Musica, with whom he performs Italian vocal music covering the period from Gesualdo’s madrigals to 18th century cantatas. Francesco Cera is particularly well-known for his performances of 17th century harpsichord and organ music.

Although normally published as a collection, these six suites were not written as such. The first five were assembled together as part of the Clavierbüchlein of 1722, and dedicated to Anna Magdalena Wilcke, who became Bach’s second wife. Bach himself never referred to these suites as “French.” That title was assigned in the late 18th century, and is based on the types of dances Bach employs in these worksBach himself never referred to these suites as “French.” That title was assigned in the late 18th century, and is based on the types of dances Bach employs in these works.