A performer's guide to the first half of the Allemanda.

This video discusses the architecture of the piece, looking at the harmony, counterpoint, and overall form in a way that can directly inform and inspire our interpretations and performances.

Even though this is a binary movement, there is in fact an overall arch to the piece that crosses over the demarcation of the double bars. Through it all, there is a wonderful interplay between the rhetorical Corellian lines, the French dance rhythms, the German use of multiple stops on the violin, and the sophisticated counterpoint.

The video also discusses the correlation between melodic lines and the harmonic rhythm. There are also specific suggestions for guitarists as to how to use the right hand to play some of the ornaments.