Composed: 1711-1720
Duration: 18 minutes
The Sixth Concerto is peculiar in using only the lower strings. Bach had a particular interest in their deeper, somewhat mournful tone colour, as shown by his works for viola da gamba and cello. In this concerto, however, the startling effect quickly wears off as the ear becomes accustomed to the lack of violin sound, and we hear merely string players revelling in their virtuosity.