Bach: Cello Suite No. 2 - Prelude (Benjamin Zander - Interpretation Class)

For more classes like this one, please visit the Benjamin Zander Center - www.benjaminzander.org/
Class handout (Bach Cello Suite No. 2, Prelude - Benjamin Zander's analysis: drive.google.com/file/d/1Pub5...)
Amanda Chi, cello
Benjamin Zander's Interpretations of Music: Lessons for Life
Dave Jamrog, Audio/Video

[@danielbrooks3566]

So many comments made by Zander can be said about writing, speaking or any creative force. He explains the music leads to a certain note and in so doing, reaching that note becomes being the theme of the music. It gave me a new insight into classical music, something I never knew. He asks the musician to de-emphasize high notes, the ones she prefers. In doing it, each note and key tells the story of the music, not the preference of the musician. The music blossomed before my eyes and along the way, it becomes simplified. Achieving simplicity, who'd have thought it would help the music tell a story? Zander showed her, and us, how the journey is the objective. Bach keeps us in suspense, as a great writer would, until the right moment. Thank you, Benjamin Zander. Classical music now has a new meaning to me.

[@brianrussel6012]

(guest) Daniel Brooks, you summed up what I was about to attempt to say ! Thank you ! 🎼😊🎼 " Isn't that amazing !" Amanda is phenomenal. 🌈😊🎼!!😊🌈 We can't help loving Benjamin Zander, he is so passionate , demonstrative, and brings out the intensity of the music so we can all really FEEL and share it . It is the most extraordinary effect, and as he says, is transformative.... "Wow!" Thank you so much. 🎼❤😊🎼🇬🇧❤🎼😊🎼

[@marcosPRATA918]

@@brianrussel6012 , very good your comment. Only B.Zander's comment on the 5th Beethoven was simplistic, as it is a work to be observed according to its peculiarities. (sorry english, translated)

[@danielbrooks3566]

Interesting to know. Perhaps B. Zander simplified the interpretation, for those of us who are not musical experts. However, the cellist seemed to respond. So much to learn. I think Zander is trying to open the door.

[@TheJonboy713]

Well said!

[@BigChungusthe3rd]

This man is pure gold for Classical music. So grateful for him in this world.

[@phuoclocnguyen9606]

Touched

[@evayuqu145]

Don’t forget the cellist

[@dakotamcmillan]

i tried to ask him on twitter to sign up for a cryopreservation service because he's too old to make it to the anti-aging things coming out within the next few decades =] i really hope some of these great people - all people really, sign up for that just in case

[@BigChungusthe3rd]

@@dakotamcmillan dude... That's the weirdest thing to ask somebody you don't know to do

[@andyking957]

... not only for classical music .... He is a "oldtimer" with a cultual background many peope do not even understand anymore. I think he attained some degree of enlighnement. He some kind is no part of this I ugly world. Always love viewing his videos even being no musician.

[@ericlopez6866]

More Bach masterclasses, please. There's really nothing else. Bach with Bach and Bach on the side.

[@banszkiviktoria]

With You on this... ❤

[@pauldeck4500]

I want this man and this cellist to do exactly this for every movement of every suite. Can you imagine the incredible monument that would create to this beautiful literature? But no, we're meant to go home and take apart all the other movements ourselves and plumb their depths using the tools he has given us here. That's the hallmark of a great master class; it's not really about the particular piece that was chosen.

[@bobbob123ful]

40:08 "You can't disappear inside yourself to be a leader; you have to give yourself away."

[@LorenzoDeLeon]

You know how to spot a true teacher ? He sheds light on the obvious you hadn’t seen. Take that F to E ascending bassline around 18:20. So obvious. Yet I did not see it or play it as it should because - as he rightly stated at the beginning - like EVERY learning cellist I’m looking for high notes / romantic lyricism. But Bach’s truth is in the BASS - in disguise behind a perfect melodic line. It’s about re-establishing a balance between the high ait melody and the subterranean forces so often forgotten. So obvious. So true. It’s now 4;30 AM here in France, can’t find sleep. But I found a real treasure here. Thank you so much mister !

[@brodhax6148]

This man snatches you out of your comfort zone and throws you onto the passion podium where the light shines brightest

[@rafaelsantos9086]

If this man is not the most inspiring teacher know, I don't know who is.

[@andrewb9974]

My favourite Suite, I'm making markings in my copy now, only 14 minutes in, and I have to pause the video to turn around because I'm completely mind blown. I've never heard this kind of structure before, and I'm honestly fascinated. This is truly great instruction

[@HurricaneCandy]

Amanda's playing is wonderful, too. I can tell she's only going to go from strength to strength.

[@bsnowden]

How can that hall not be full? This is magic.

[@barracudaspin1427]

It could be so intimidating being next to Mr Zander but his passion and how he makes us appreciate the music just as much as he does only made me feel so close to him the whole time, what a moment! So satisfying how he extracts the beauty of Bach's music, and how the cellist catches that... The level of talent. Remarkable, thank you!

[@cesardeleonfreijomil]

I find the structure transmitted by Bach fascinating, I had not realized that the dilemma is the notes and what happens to them, my head exploded when I discovered it, thanks to this wonderful person I was able to appreciate the beauty of Bach. Thank you BENJAMIN for living and sharing the beauty of music that is the greatest thing we have in this life.

[@johnalexander301]

The world could use more people like Benjamin Zander.

[@brianmurphy4032]

I dont understand the dirty looks from half the audience... I've played the first and second suite at competitions and 4 years later I'm still learning what Bach intended to be heard in his music. Fantastic interpretation filled with musical gems

[@ercborg]

I'm blown away, the music just got so much more beautiful in my ears when I understood the journey. The best music teacher I've seen, and a wonderful cellist. This video is a goldmine, should be kept as a reference by all who play Bach.

[@PhilippMeierGermany]

I think the name of the student should be mentioned in the Title. Great job, Mrs. Chi and Mr. Zander!

[@henniebogan1966]

I'm late in coming to classical music and some months ago came across a Benjamin Zander video. I've been a fan ever since and absolutely love what he teaches us all about the music and what he's able to bring out of his students. He is a living legend and os giving back in such a special and impactful way.

[@gladissemensato2061]

He’s so respectfull and gentle. Great. Inspiring.

[@lbco5229]

I used a portion of one of these videos in a security seminar - the lessons of Mr. Zander go beyond music. Thank you sir.

[@Violamaster1996]

What was the teaching you used in the security seminar? I’m curious

[@albertmoore4445]

There is always a wonderful synergy of musical meaning that emerges from the intersection of the talented, advanced students' skills and maestro Zander's inspiring guidance.

[@firebearva]

He is bringing out all that Miss Chi has to give, exposing her soul to the listening audience. They ride on every note. I suspect she was not only physically, but emotionally exhausted after this educational class from maestro Zander. Wonderful.

[@angelikaseegers-classicalg8053]

What a wonderful lecture to get INTO the music, to share music and to have music as NEEDED thing in all our lifes - and how joyfull !! With the full power of joy !! Thank you very much : -)) " Töne sind höhere Worte "

[@jakebullet3763]

What an amazing insight Benjamin Zander offers on Bach, music, human communication and life, and how much richer is the appreciation of the music because of it. How he pulls so much more from the student is amazing to see. I knew this music but never noted the architectural structure which Benjamin points out. The idea of 12 bar then 36 bar then 12 bar arches in a 60 bar piece is amazing and I loved the part from bars 30-48 where everything rides in on the wave of that haunting ‘A’ note. Watching this video inspired me to start learning this piece on my cello. Thank you Benjamin Zander for shining such a beautiful light into these dark places.

[@willgoeke5027]

beautiful performance. I play the cello and I'm currently studying Bach... and did anyone else close their eyes when he told the audience to close theirs? (fav part 2:16 - 2:34)

[@adamjones7701]

After her first runthru i cant tell you how fast i started practicing to this, prolly gonna keep on for a few hrs lol i love these

[@ben1147]

The performance at the end was very moving for me.

[@pauldavies6037]

From a rather stiff introduction to a wonderful flowing piece of music Ben has so much knowledge for us to learn

[@David-il9xw]

Applause for teacher and student. Intense journey to fully elucidate Bach’s magnificent music.

[@JimmyDaboul]

47:44 min seems a bit long interpretation... 47.44 min later. Wow it ended so soon.

[@serafin1719]

He’s a genius ... no more words needed

[@mathieurenaud8864]

Benjamin Zander is fantastic

[@nicestguy]

Always a pleasure to listen to Benjamin's perspective, which is filled with a passion for the music, the composer and for the performer. Julian Bream, the exceptional classical guitarist, made a comment in one of his masterclasses I will never forget and I think may explain why Benjamin said he was a bit lost when he was listening. Julian said something along the lines of when you play the first note, it is as if you played the last note. The piece must be held together through its various bars/sections meticulously and carefully otherwise it will seem disconnected and loose its true emotive potential.

[@JaxonBurn]

Bream really was a brilliant musician and pedagogue. Nice to meet a lover of classical guitar (I’m assuming you are one if you’re familiar with Bream) out here. Sometimes I feel like classical guitar is so disconnected from the rest of the world of classical music.

[@Jessikas-Klarinettenoase]

Thank you sooo much for sharing!!!! I learned sooo much and I love how Zander is thinking about the role of musicians. He talks like an awaken person!

[@user-wz2qe2pv6r]

Sat here, cello in its case but with the music in my hand..following. Its incredible, free tuition for all....Mr Zander is pure gold..even tho I find it extraordinary he has to explain a lot of this...its music and packed with emotion....show it.

[@bllybao]

26:45 So beautiful, It's like the world crumble around them in such a magnificent way.

[@EpiclyCrazyy]

This is just fantastic. Mr Zander is a rare gift.

[@estremp]

Feel first. Then play. No rush. Music is love.

[@stephenfife4531]

As requested by others I would very much like your analysis you offered to those in the audience. I love Bach but have difficulty knowing how to bring out what Bach intended. Your analysis will really help.

[@davidclarke5810]

Great video, drinking game: Drink every time he says "isn't that amazing."

[@speakersr-lyefaudio6830]

David Clarke Are you trying to kill us?

[@bertilegero7183]

First time I get so deep into this piece. Like a reward for an ageing cello amateur. Many thanks to the fantastic cellist!

[@reeshavpaul522]

Master Oogway of classical music. I love the wisdom he sprinkles.

[@juanterneus-bluesman6791]

Wonderful program... thank you Amanda and Benjamin 🙏

[@jpdj2715]

Ms. Chi has great chi and now the maestro has shown Bach's to her

[@dianazamarron2370]

How amazing!! The amount of joy in learning and teaching, loved it!!

[@MusicaAngela]

This is so inspiring! Even though I just put my cello away for the day, I'm longing to get it out again and practice.

[@E_MZ_]

MusicaAngela I know the feeling. I’m tempted to start again and it’s pretty late at night :)

[@franco.r91]

Thanks for more Bach masterclass

[@basedaudio1]

He gets you out of your comfort zone in a nice way. My master class instructor was a tad tougher.

[@michaels7889]

So very enlightening over this profound prelude.

[@michaels7889]

And I wish I could make it sound like that!

[@Vince-wq8xr]

I love this piece (I'm learning to play it), this masterclass is pure gold for me, thank you M. Zander, and thank you, young lady 🙏🤗

[@djloera1]

Amazing performance and eye-opening interpretation to understanding this piece. I’m slowly picking up the cello again and playing different pieces that I played before. This will be one to try again with the help of this video. Great job!

[@dennistedder3384]

Benjamin is incredible.

[@Justawoodsawyer]

Honestly, I wonder, do we need to go for audition to be the audience, why are there so many empty seats? TT wish me luck guys I'm auditioning to conservatories in Boston, if I get in, and move to Boston you will see me in every of his video!!! Maestro Zander is my most favourite man in this entire universe!!! I wanna join BPYO tooo before it's too late!!! I want to play for him one day, I will.

[@santiagoporcino4229]

Pizzacato good luck on your endeavour

[@Justawoodsawyer]

Isaac Brito thanks Isaac ❤️😭

[@santiagoporcino4229]

Pizzacato No problem 👍

[@Justawoodsawyer]

Here’s an update, I got my offer!! Boston I’m coming🥺❤️

[@Violamaster1996]

@karrie your update is so heartwarming to read. Experience it fully, you deserve the best 🙏🏽

[@Mr1234karlos]

Thank you, You took me on a journey and i was in utter ore. x

[@CC-Pi]

I didn't think it could sound any better after Amanda first performed it at the beginning of the video, it sounded so good, then by the final performance the difference was goose bumps all over me.

[@gasparocelloman9852]

I like to imagine a low bass D pedal throughout the first 4 bars. Completely changes the rhetorical impact of the second and 3rd bars. The pedal note might represent Bach’s unchanging and ever present god, the dissonances above might depict the struggles of faith, or the pain of loss. The prelude wanders through a wilderness of frailties and uncertainty until finally, in the closing bars, faith is affirmed…or something. 🤷🏻‍♂️

[@banszkiviktoria]

Loved her style right away, this cello sounds wonderful as well

[@lynnrixson1094]

Absolutely fabulous as usual 😊

[@zhengwu8697]

This was such a treat! Thanks you!

[@babynature3]

Love this so much!

[@NikGambardella]

I can see myself in the audience!

[@tonywest2388]

Incredible. Great tutor

[@JOETESTA]

thanks for this absolutely great lesson

[@rickjensen2717]

Very interesting. Zander really helps her improve what she does. I think that she does a great job to be honest. A couple of other things to work on though: easy on the vibrato; inject a bit of 'magic' (the first few bars set things up and should sound really ethereal - she must avoid making it sound mechanical); listen to baroque specialists playing other instruments (especially violin, viola de gamba and lute) 👏

[@ritamerrill3227]

Hello from Alaska! I've been waiting for this piece to be featured here. You have no idea how excited I was to see it. I've been waiting for guidance on how to breathe life into this piece. It was wonderful, just brilliant! Please please please can you make a copy of the analysis available online? It would mean so very much to me to get a copy.

[@nickdavis965]

If your from Alaska you must know who Zuill Bailey is?

[@ritamerrill3227]

I don't believe so, are they a musician in the Anchorage Symphony?

[@TheMusicalKnokcers]

there is people with internet in alaska ? there is cities in alaska ?

[@ryan.s3992]

its in the description

[@seberry1]

The handout is available online here: www.benjaminzander.org/library/bach-cello-suite-no-2-prelude/

[@amdesidik305]

What a maestro he is...i love his technique too

[@kafkareicer4549]

Merci Mr Zander

[@kpunkt.klaviermusik]

JSBach - Greatest composer of all times! His music is as modern and breathtaking as it was ~ 300 years ago.

[@carlosmante]

Master Class.

[@jasearon4532]

She’s brilliant 😊❤

[@cellonaut]

sirry Ananda. Too much shivers. 🤧

[@RayMaster_901]

Bon travaille!!!

[@RobManser77]

93,000 views, 2100 likes (one of which is mine - stunning playing), and about 11 people in the audience in a theatre that seats 200 😃 This in a nutshell is why You Tube is so amazing.

[@nazaninandante8324]

Dear channel admin! I have sent you an email asking for permission to add Persian subtitle to your videos. Please respond ! 🙏🏻

[@saeedjlnsi7879]

A wonderful idea....Wish u luck

[@unforgive2n]

have you done it? dont you mind to Share please?

[@nazaninandante8324]

Ali Bayat Well I haven’t translated anything yet, but if I do so, you could find it in the “caption” section

[@123anes1]

Excellent! It's intersting that he says to her that she should play for the audience but I like better Rostropovich approach to the suite. This suite should be only played for yourself and the audience is just eavesdropping.

[@Uilenstede48]

I found it very beautiful, the way these two human beings interact. The joy of life itself emanate from his every move and voice. Any guess why the old lady in the minute 16:11 wore that look?

[@musicgaines7170]

Didn't like what the old man was saying

[@Violamaster1996]

It very well could’ve been she was just enjoying the depth of the moment, and rather than clap, she was taking it in... but by just a quick micro glance, it looks like frustration, when really it’s appreciation. One possible interpretation

[@petershapiro4247]

in Bach, EVERY note is important--Casals

[@ravenlyn6]

Oh, I wish I had one of those handouts! ;-)

[@mr555harv]

All hail Zander!!

[@celloscript3499]

I actually don’t know why she is doing it fast. But it’s very good

[@rosabellino958]

Wonderful! Can we have a link to the analysis you mention at the end- Grazie mille!

[@seberry1]

The Zander handout is available on line here: www.benjaminzander.org/library/bach-cello-suite-no-2-prelude/

[@rudyzulkarnaen1633]

Mr Zander was basically teaching Ms Chi how to do the "funk" on the cello😁

[@blindcanseemusic]

By holding the A so long you are in an inevitable centrifugal gravitational spin into the black hole of D

[@PuffinEasy]

Bellissima Amanda

[@apinan77]

Mostly comments from Benjamin always lead to miracle of hiding note between secret chamber bar # string , excellent 👍

[@RochestersGotTalentbyPaulRefic]

is there a musical note or vibration that can kill this corona virus?

[@NotGabrielGomez]

Wow

[@syuanpcmac]

灵魂的声音。

[@dinateresaserafimteresa7615]

Boa tarde!

[@deathhy7590]

42:50

[@Pensivata]

Amanda is from Taiwan - a country which produces so many great musicians.

[@urogijani]

FUCK YEAHHH

[@HausofKinney]

Can we have the analysis as well???

[@seberry1]

The Zander handout is available online here: www.benjaminzander.org/library/bach-cello-suite-no-2-prelude/

[@HausofKinney]

@@seberry1 I posted this comment 2 years ago...

[@luiseduardosierrarojas9960]

Hello good day

[@user-ce6vg8rr3l]

In Bach every note is important--Pablo Casals...I would add, emotionally important..

[@catalan66ful]

man a studio version would be… a waking dream...

[@seberry1]

Like so many others, I enjoyed watching this, though I often felt sorry for Amanda. Overall, strictly speaking as a listener, I felt like every rendition of Prelude 2 here was rushed and missing the sense of exploratory improvisation that feels to me as if it were imbued into the very fabric of the preludes. As many visitors of this site likely know, Domenico Gabrielli was a master of cultivating this feeling of real-time discovery in his Sieben Ricercari. I think Steuart Pincombe gets this sense of letting the present moment of each note be the guide (versus some architectonic memory of its previous unfoldings). You can experience his masterful enactment of all of these moments at the Concertgebouw, Amsterdam here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/lX_Zi4WlYpiqrLc

[@RochestersGotTalentbyPaulRefic]

many people play with there eyes close especially the blues players,,cause they are feeling the music

[@xXIceShowerXx]

Türkler de toplanmisti resmen chat'de

[@tomatojuice12]

Where is this recorded?

[@BostonPhilharmonic]

At the Boston Public Library.