Johann Sebastian Bach (1685-1750) wrote the Well-Tempered Clavier to help keyboard students master their knowledge of the keyboard, and more importantly, the relationships among the various tonal keys. The Well-Tempered Clavier features preludes and fugues in all of the twenty-four major and minor keys.
We at Los Angeles Guitar Academy agree that the knowledge of music theory can help musicians become familiar with the locations of the notes on their instrument. More importantly, learning music theory will make one aware of the relationships among the notes in both the melodic line and in the harmonic structure, making it easier to improvise or play by ear, whether this piece or any other.
The piece translates well to the guitar. In fact, its soothing, gentle sound becomes even more intimate when played on the guitar. Guitarists of many styles will want to learn this piece, since it works well as a piece to play on special occasions or in dining establishments.
This guitar transcription, in the original key, will give your arpeggio technique a good workout. The arpeggio technique is a foundational technique for playing any style of guitar.
For a thorough preparation in the arpeggio technique, enroll in our full subscription online classical guitar lessons.
Spot Practice Clip:
[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/embed/In[/youtube]This is the most challenging passage in the piece, having a few hinge bars, variable arpeggio fingerings, and full bars. Practice the hinge bar measures very slowly. Isolate and repeat those measures until you become familiar with them. Also note the slight rotation of your left hand, as your instructor demonstrates on the clip, to allow your fingers to have easy access on some of the positions.
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