Bach Suite no 3 in C Major - I. Prelude

The Prelude of this suite consists of an A–B–A–C form. The Allemande is the only movement in the suites that has an up-beat consisting of three semiquavers instead of just one, which is the standard form. The second Bourrée, though in C minor, has a 2-flat key-signature. This notation, common in pre-Classical music, is sometimes known as a partial key-signature. The first and second Bourrée of the third suite is sometimes used as solo material for other bass instruments such as the tuba, euphonium, trombone and bassoon.



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If testing anxiety causes sleepless nights, classical music can help soothe insomnia. A team of researchers at the University of Toronto found that tuning into classical music before bedtime helped people fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. Works by Brahms, Handel, Mozart, Strauss and Bach were effective sleep aids because they use rhythms and tonal patterns that create a meditative mood and slow brainwaves, the study found.