James Jacobs

Join James Jacobs, WETA Classical's resident cello player, as he takes you on an enchanting journey through J.S. Bach's six iconic Cello Suites. With his cello in hand, James skillfully demonstrates the intricate melodic structures and emotional depth of these timeless pieces. He discusses the historical context and technical challenges of the suites, while also exploring the unique interpretations that breathe life into them. Don't miss the captivating full performance of one suite, leaving you with a deeper appreciation for Bach's genius.

James Jacobs, a contributor to Classical WETA, dives into the life of Johann Sebastian Bach, once overlooked, now heralded as a musical giant. He explores how a teenage admirer helped revive Bach's influence and shares captivating tales, including Bach's quirky stint in jail. Jacobs discusses Bach's evolution, the emotional depth of his compositions, and how his music transformed through various roles. He even humorously speculates on how aliens might perceive Bach's genius through the Voyager record. A delightful mix of history and music awaits!