The Knights - J.S. Bach: Brandenburg Concerto No. 3; Paul Simon (Arr. Colin Jacobsen): American Tune

The Knights featuring Christina Courtin
Vocals, Violin - Christina Courtin
Violins - Colin Jacobsen, Nanae Iwata
Viola - Margaret Dyer Harris, Mario Gotoh, Emily Smith
Cello - Caitlin Sullivan, Jane Cords-O'Hara, Eric Jacobsen
Bass - Logan Coale
Harpsichord - Steve Beck
Audio & Video Production - Vitor Hirtsch
Cameras - Alessio Romano, Vitor Hirtsch
Filmed at Caramoor Center for Music and the Arts
Shared with the express written permission of Universal Music Publishing Group

[@sibionic]

beautiful Bach playing

[@pierrebeaumont4135]

Not in a million years would Europeans dare put a 20th century song in Bach's Brandenburg 3rd's cadenza. Bravo les Américains! Marvellous music ; )

[@SanchieB]

Paul Simon "borrowed" the entire melody and most of the harmonization of the first section of American Tune from a JS Bach chorale, which Bach borrowed from Hans Leo Hassler's chorale O Sacred Head, Now Wounded. There is the connection.

[@martaflitxpanella9423]

Paul Simon allways everywhere....

[@harveywallbanger3123]

Periodically I return to this video to be sure it's real. Remarkable interpretation. Remarkable performances. Remarkable cinematography. A real tearjearker. Pound for pound, this may be the finest thing The Knights have ever recorded for posterity.

[@hans-jurgenandresen1542]

Es ist solch eine große Freude, dieses Stück zu hören. Mit so viel Elan und Kunst! Vielen Dank! Hätte diese Truppe damals im 17. Jahrhundert auf einem öffentlichen Platz gespielt, die Menschen wären außer sich gewesen, hätten gejubelt, den Himmel gepriesen und hinterher davon erzählt, soviel Glück erlebt zu haben, wie es beinahe nicht vorstellbar ist. Auch wir aus dem 21. Jahrundert sind glücklich und freuen uns.

[@muzigzag]

Simon DID NOT borrow this tune from J.-S. Bach but from Hans Leo Hassler (1601). Render therefore unto Caesar the things which are Caesar's. JSB did use it in his Mathaus Passion in some ten versions with various and exquisite SSTB four-part harmonies. And it was JSB who indeed definitely turned it into a worldwide hit. Note that Simon added a section of his own to Hassler's melody ("And I dreamed I was dyin'"). Technically speaking this is what musicians call a "bridge", but in this case it is no way over troubled water.

[@stevesworldofwanders]

I love this so much.

[@perv10003]

The Paul Simon is indeed gorgeous - bravo to Eric Jacobsen as well to the poised and touching Christine Courtine. But frankly it was the Knights’ performance of the Brandenburg that blew me away. Never have I heard its shape and felt its excitement so strongly. And what virtuosic playing. Love the dynamics!

[@marthamagee2055]

exquisite perfection all the way around. The singer really did that so I'm just us. And gotta love the red sneakers!

[@bbs3470]

Wow, this is how Bach should be played. Thank you.

[@shin-i-chikozima]

Brandenburg Concerto wraps up the sorrow of the life, and soothes my soul

[@MSTBASSMAN]

Wow! Goose bumps! Special kudos to the recording engineer...this is one of the finest recordings I have ever heard.

[@cravog.silveira4601]

Christina Courtine's voice touches my soul deep deep.

[@Pwelch117]

Christina is like Super Woman, black dress and heels while playing violin and then sequin pants and red converse while singing as her alter ego!

[@justsomeguy911]

Amazing arrangement and performance. True to both Bach and Simon! Thank you for sharing.

[@placidpond]

There’s a hole in my heart twenty years old. It’s called 9/11/01 and conflicts of morality rage on. But music and the unity of its performance writes hope and love to the sky.

[@prestonbealle8632]

Stunning. IT's a great 15 minutes, but slide to 6:25 to watch this woman and her astonishing voice give a new sound to Paul Simon's song. What an inspired choice to put that in the middle of this wonderful performance. She should have a label deal just for her voice.

[@PanchoGHT]

I am astonished and amazed by her vocal interpretation of this American Tune arrangement; Christina Courtin has raised the bar even higher with this most beautiful and spirited version. My modest and grateful thanks to her.

[@cravog.silveira4601]

I love this violinist and singer so much!! She's become my idol ever since I first watched her play and sing.

[@rockyracune1779]

The singer starts out slowly, but finishes so strong and lovely!

[@svenhamburg8054]

Ein wahres Geschenk für unsere Ohren und für unserer Herz. Danke, durften es live in der Elbphilamonie in Hamburg genießen, neben uns hatte viele Menschen auch feuchte Augen. Ein Moment, den wir nicht vergessen werden. Danke

[@torqueguy1]

This is so wonderful. Thanks

[@bethperkins5504]

The fun! The beauty! The joy! You Knights always seem to know exactly what the world needs. Thank you.

[@ewein1117]

What an uplifting performance of joy and beauty by the Knights. The dynamic, energetic Brandenburg is performed so beautifully and the lovely performance of Christina is so gentle and heartwarming.

[@richardjchandler]

The fabulous String & Harpsichord Chamber Orchestra, The Knights, perform J.S. Bach's 3rd Brandenburg Concerto with Paul Simon's "American Tune" seamlessly included. Hats off to the arranger, Colin Jacobsen, and the singer, Knight violinist, Christina Courtin!

[@zman4539]

Bravo! This rendition of Bach's Masterpiece is mind candy played by musicians having fun while creating every single note perfectly. The beautiful Christine Courtine sings Paul SImons American tune with emotion and respect to the listener. The red converse were a nice touch to let the world know that the Knights are a uniquely American treasure.

[@PanchoGHT]

mmm don't know how to explain it .. but here I am. Every note, every word, everything is there with its own intention and meaning; what an outstanding interpretation this is. Thank you Christina Courtin and of course, thanks to JS Bach and PSimon.

[@joelewis58]

didn't I see this during the Music Never Sleeps NYC a month before this post, either in the past, now or in the future it is lovely to have it to watch again. (and if i saw "Unanswered Question," during Music Never Sleeps DMF yesterday what tomorrow will you let me see it again. your all brilliant cheers

[@TheKnightsNYC]

Hi Joe! We just released the Ives video this afternoon. Thank you for your kind words and we hope you enjoy! bit.ly/3etRUtZ

[@JimsMusicLessons]

Loved this performance. Nice shoes. Looking for more from this group.

[@johne6081]

I love all of the Brandenburg Concerti, and the Third is the most fun and uplifting of the bunch. It was fun to watch how much these accomplished musicians enjoyed performing this piece.

[@PanchoGHT]

It's been weeks now since I heard this version for the first time; well it's simple but I can't stop listening to it. Christina Courtin you better be a wonder violinist if we are to loose you as a singer !!

[@jessicab6887]

This feels incredibly relevant right now... Certainly seems to be something I needed to experience. Thank you for posting.

[@millicent5542]

Especially love the cellos...gettin' down. My go-to viewing to keep me smiling!

[@rockyracune1779]

I love this entire performance! The singer gets stronger and stronger as she sings. Wow!

[@beherenow123]

Bravo to all The Knights, and especially to the remarkable Christina Courtin. I heard you guys perform American Tune in Michigan a couple of years ago, and it continues to be a peak experience I treasure. I love how you’ve honored and extended Paul Simon’s appropriation of Bach’s setting by pairing American Tune with the 3rd Brandenburg Concerto. Thank you for all the music, beauty, and excitement The Knights bring to the world.

[@MrKronosir]

Great!! Amercan's Tune returning to Bach. Virtual loop. Thank you very much for sharing!!

[@marckaplan5903]

What beauty...just opened my email for an early Saturday breakfast and found this gem. I totally agree with Steve Schnieder's remarks on the pairing of Bach and Simon it seemed incredibly organic. This is the first time I have heard the Knights perform, and I know it will not be the last. Colin Jacobson's arrangement was incredible and sensitive and of course Christina Courtin's vocals were heartfelt, especially these days (Red Cons and Black sequined pant suit- a great combo). Thank you Caramoor.

[@peterswenson6424]

I love the Knights. I heard their Eroica Symphony in Chicago a few years ago and became an instant fan. This is what music making is about (or should be)!

[@vb6060]

Today I felt absolute happiness watching this stunning rendition. I'd also like to mention that I was deeply touched by Christina Courtin's American tune. It's the most beautiful American tune I've ever heard. You are much appreciated from Seoul Korea.

[@envitech02]

What stunning performance!! As an amateur violinist I know and can play all the Brandenburg's by heart, Nos 2 & 3 being favourites by far. Bach's Concerto No 3, 2nd movement is a bit special. It consists of only 2 notes in 2 bars. If you only play these 2 notes, it's like eating only plain white bread, which is no fun. Rather, every performer improvises this 2nd movement based on this theme. As a result, no two No. 3 2nd mvmt is ever alike. Each has their own take. That this performance employs Christina Courtin to sing Paul Simon's American Tune is a masterful and refreshing intermeshing of the classics and the modern. I'd say Bravo! Bravo!! Old Man Bach would have approved! Sehr gut und Ausgezeichnet!!!

[@geoplastcaribeplast9774]

This voice shattered my soul...

[@musicfanBRA]

I applaud the pairing of a piece of classical music with a high quality pop song. This should be done more often! Bach + Paul Simon, Bach + John Lennon, Mozart + Paul McCartney, Beethoven + Bob Dylan - why not?

[@antonynelson6732]

I could pretty much listen to this for ever. Interesting fact. My favourite pub in London is called The Mayflower, which is apparently the place where she sailed from. I think.

[@Frenchloki]

Beautiful performance - very moving and very apt in the current climate.

[@terryking7134]

Fantastic and touching. Also you don't need gut strings and Baroque set-up to give Bach his due! Thank you. Simon must have been thrilled too.

[@ellenchamberlin38]

Truly cannot stop listening to this! Beautiful arrangement and singing.

[@eri6764]

Came to watch immediately when got the email. It’s so nice to hear such wonderful performance in such a time.

[@AndrewBrel]

Beautiful. On every level.

[@millicent5542]

I'm reposting, again. Through tears of longing for live performance...this is joyfull and comforting!

[@walt4670]

Christina's performance very unexpectedly moved me to tears. Thank you to all who made this recording :).

[@Mercari1964]

OMG -- the sheerest genius. Superb music insight . . . deeply moving.

[@stephenguitartracey]

Awesome! Big fan of both J.S. Bach and P. Simon.

[@JAGUITARPLAYER]

Paul Simon is a Genius: The Bach of 20 th century

[@douglask.pennington2091]

Sublime...

[@caseylasnier3259]

Bravo! Just watched with my daughters and we loved the music.

[@PranakashaProductions]

the Bach is superb and the extended cadenza in the 2nd mvt leading into the Paul Simon is wonderful!

[@mollyyukomcguire]

her voice!!! Gorgeous!!!!

[@ninteve5624]

They all are amazing.

[@pianopsycho88]

Pure genius. Absolutely love this.

[@marclevin3128]

I love when the cellists smile at one another (4:38).

[@johne6081]

That is indeed what chamber music is all about. :)

[@Mingus8]

My God, how beautiful.. and powerful this is.

[@kaue_nogueira]

I love it so much! Since the performance in the Music Never Sleeps NYC, I listen to it every month

[@jeffreybalmer]

Brilliant!

[@edwardbilous2653]

Breathtaking. Food for the soul. Thank you for posting.

[@elizabethmahler7692]

Love!

[@su-laineyeobrodsky3608]

This is my new favourite Paul Simon cover. Make an album of more of this, please :)

[@vsmith23]

LOVE LOVE LOVE THIS!!!

[@jonbudish7744]

love this! thank you!

[@miguelosma6538]

Excelente elección , Brandemburgo y Bach y American tune y Paul Simon... Fantástica interpretación, plena de buen gusto, sensibilidad y creatividad. ¿ Qué más se puede pedir? Thanks very much , por este maravilloso regalo, recibido en Bilbao.

[@user-iv3fi2mb9w]

American Tuneのベースがハッキリわかって納得した。

[@geetarzanmt]

Beautiful!

[@juancarlosreal5604]

Just fantastic

[@alejandromosquerasouto6614]

Fantástico!!!!

[@DonRossMusic]

The cellist’s grin at 4:38 is priceless.

[@JAGUITARPLAYER]

Of course , Knights are superb!!!

[@zuuzshaman]

Thank you.

[@jack-danielbalantine156]

Revolution!

[@martaflitxpanella9423]

Is this magic?

[@mauriziozambelli7328]

Wow :)

[@timfowler6675]

I always have moist eyes when I hear BC3. I needed tissues this time

[@WilliamFord972]

Didn’t read the whole title clearly enough and was completely not expecting that “second movement.”

[@robertwilson6932]

Beautiful on al levels. Is this set at the Gardner Museum Boston?

[@TheKnightsNYC]

Hi Robert, we're glad you enjoyed this video! It was filmed in the Rosen House at Caramoor Center for Music and the Arts in Katonah, NY.

[@ronabrams7899]

i am certainly moved by the performance of this magical, beautiful girl who has sung this song with all her soul, she has captured the true essence of the dream of dying, and then after death to live again, to literally fly up to heaven. astral projection can only be achieved when you overcome your fear of dying. from the other comments i assume that her name is Christina... great job, Chrissie, never give up on your dreams, you are Angelic.

[@massimosettimi2093]

the Music of American Tune is not by Paul Simon. It's by Johan Sebastian Bach (BWV 244 "Matthaus Passion"). Anyway Paul Simon is an act genius.

[@paulbraunstein2290]

3:47

[@DancingNancio]

I am just SO moved by this...the combo and American Tune. That song is SO timely. Now...time to get some rest.

[@bendiamond3523]

This is great. Also fun to note that the source material for American Tune also comes from Bach! kzbin.info/www/bejne/goasd2CJiaalkNk

[@Loki2154]

Well that is different and unexpected! I love the passion they brought to the Bach, but it was a pretty abrupt shift to the Simon song. Lovely all through and spectacular intonation in the strings.

[@menchievalencia3895]

Wala po bang lyrics neto?

[@mechanix1960]

Many's the time I've been mistaken And many times confused Yes, and I've often felt forsaken And certainly misused Oh, but I'm alright, I'm alright I'm just weary to my bones Still, you don't expect to be bright and bon vivant So far away from home, so far away from home And I don't know a soul who's not been battered I don't have a friend who feels at ease I don't know a dream that's not been shattered Or driven to its knees But it's alright, it's alright For we lived so well so long Still, when I think of the Road we're traveling on I wonder what's gone wrong I can't help it, I wonder what has gone wrong And I dreamed I was dying I dreamed that my soul rose unexpectedly And looking back down at me Smiled reassuringly And I dreamed I was flying And high up above my eyes could clearly see The Statue of Liberty Sailing away to sea And I dreamed I was flying We come on the ship they call The Mayflower We come on the ship that sailed the moon We come in the age's most uncertain hours And sing an American tune Oh, and it's alright, it's alright, it's alright You can't be forever blessed Still, tomorrow's going to be another working day And I'm trying to get some rest That's all I'm trying to get some rest Quelle: Musixmatch Songwriter: Paul Simon Songtext von American Tune ('Live') © Paul Simon Music

[@gerardbraun8269]

Yes, quite nice. But I prefer the more rythmical swinging, adventurousplayful and lively performance of Musica Antiqua Köln.

[@jdj830]

A stunning and moving musical performance which I first heard when it was broadcast on WETA a few weeks ago. I love it and share with the other commenters my enthusiasm for this arrangement. However I must admit I’m disappointed by the visual aspect of this video. I’m not sure what this posh setting and formal wear has to do with what The Knights are about or what Paul Simon’s song is about. And having the singer suddenly get glammed up to sing the song takes away the magic of having that voice unexpectedly emerge from the violin section. The music is honest and unpretentious while this video is the opposite of that. I was kind of expecting you to shoot this in a warehouse or dock in Red Hook with the real Statue of Liberty in the distance while wearing street clothes. Or maybe you could have made some statement contrasting an American working class look with the surroundings at Caramoor which look like the kind of room Bach would have performed the work in at Cothen. Or something. But I won’t hold the video director’s choices against you. It’s a great performance that is a perfect balm for this time.

[@m.s.t4099]

Terrible KITSCH but it probably pays off.

[@brezomusic]

Great "performance" in every way. It seems that someone else is messing up in the classical world, or pulling off a cobweb. Paul Simon's theme "American Tune" is based on a passage from Johann Sebastian Bach's The Passion According to Saint Matthew called "O Haupt voll Blut und Wunden" ("Oh head bloody and wounded", a hymn to the head of Christ) from 1727. Watch: www.similarrock.com/paul-simon-bach/