IV. Instrumental Music
There are few instruments for which Bach did not write. In his day it was usual to play a Concerto or instrumental Solo during the Communion office.[295] Bach composed many of these pieces himself, and always with a view to their improving the technique of the player. Most of them are lost. But two important works of another kind survive and to some extent compensate us. They are:
| 1. Six Solos for Violin, unaccompanied.[296] | |
|---|---|
| 2. Six Solos for Violoncello, unaccompanied.[297] The Violin Solos have long been considered by the finest players to be the best instructor for the instrument. The Violoncello Solos are equally effective.[298] |