Bourrée in E minor BWV996 - Johann Sebastian Bach

$5.00

“Bourrée in E minor” by Johann Sebastian Bach is one of the most beloved and frequently performed pieces in the classical guitar repertoire. Originally part of Bach’s “Suite in E minor for Lute, BWV 996,” this piece has been expertly transcribed for classical guitar, allowing guitarists to explore Bach’s masterful counterpoint and rhythmic vitality. The bourrée, a lively dance of French origin, is characterised by its brisk tempo and distinctive rhythm, which Bach skilfully weaves into a complex and engaging musical narrative.

I first learned this piece many years ago when I was still quite new to the guitar. From memory I learned it going into my second year of guitar study after watching Yngwie Malmsteen play it during a concert on television.

This is a great example of contrapuntal writing whereby 2 distinct melodic lines play simultaneously. When playing it's important to keep the lines separate where required and not to let one overpower the other.

6 pages featuring:

  • Sheet music with tabs underneath (complete fingerings for both hands)

  • Sheet music only

  • Tabs only

“Bourrée in E minor” by Johann Sebastian Bach is one of the most beloved and frequently performed pieces in the classical guitar repertoire. Originally part of Bach’s “Suite in E minor for Lute, BWV 996,” this piece has been expertly transcribed for classical guitar, allowing guitarists to explore Bach’s masterful counterpoint and rhythmic vitality. The bourrée, a lively dance of French origin, is characterised by its brisk tempo and distinctive rhythm, which Bach skilfully weaves into a complex and engaging musical narrative.

I first learned this piece many years ago when I was still quite new to the guitar. From memory I learned it going into my second year of guitar study after watching Yngwie Malmsteen play it during a concert on television.

This is a great example of contrapuntal writing whereby 2 distinct melodic lines play simultaneously. When playing it's important to keep the lines separate where required and not to let one overpower the other.

6 pages featuring:

  • Sheet music with tabs underneath (complete fingerings for both hands)

  • Sheet music only

  • Tabs only

This is one of Bach’s most recognisable pieces. It experienced a renaissance when it was included in Jack Black’s Pick of Destiny.
It is an excellent example of contrapuntal writing, and sits at around Grade 6 on guitar.

Access Full Course 

Sheet Music & Tabs included

  • HD Video Lessons - carefully show you every single note from beginning to end

  • Detailed Fingering — provide clear indications explaining which fingers to use for fretting and picking

  • Progress Tracking — gives a measurable and meaningful sense of accomplishment plus motivation

  • Printable Score — tabs and music notation are an additional tool to assist with learning

  • Technique Hacks —  provide suggestions to overcome technical road blocks

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