The following is a reprint of Henry Doktorski's Forward to the score of this arrangement (with the first page of the score appearing below the text).

However, for an even more interesting and anecdotal exploration into the origins of this polka by Bach, click HERE

"The Duetto from Cantata #78 by Johann Sebastian Bach (1685-1750) was originally scored for four musicians: two singers - a boy soprano and alto, and two stringed instruments - a violoncello and violone, which were the ancestors of the modern cello and bass fiddle. The soprano and alto voices entwine in a delightful duet of loving petition to the Lord (The text is printed below).

The violoncello provides a driving eighth note rhythmic accompaniment which pauses for breath only at the principal cadences. The violone part, marked pizzicato by Bach, provides a steady beat of quarter notes which is essentially a derivation from the violoncello part.

Following is the correlation between the original score and the arrangement for accordion quartet:

Soprano = Accordion 1
Alto = Accordion 2
Violincello = Accordion 3
Violone = Accordion 4

The first and second accordionists may "sing" like a young boy treble, in a light and agile manner using the accordion's violin or oboe registers. The third accordionist may use the bandoneon register and play slightly detached to emphasize the steady rhythm of the violoncello. The bass accordionist may also play in a slightly detached manner to imitate a bass fiddle.

The percussion part is derived completely from the upper four voices. It underscores the steady rhythmic drive of the violoncello and also provides dynamic support at the cadences."

Henry Doktorski, 4/18/91