@@RobMacKillop1not that it shouldn't be enjoyed in its entirety :) but since I'm learning it movement by movement, it was helpful for myself :) question, in your notation you don't have a slur on the ascending lines that start at the end of the 22nd measure, but you do play it that way here. I don't think most cello renditions do the slur either. Was it an in-the-moment creative inclination? You certainly nailed it (I can't).
@@saam6768 From many years of studying Bach and Weiss, I can say that slurs appear in different places with different editions or manuscripts. My impression is they put them in whenever and wherever they felt like. So that's what I do. And that decision could change with different performances. Good luck! Rob
I've been casually playing piano for 19 years and ukulele for 6 years now and this stuff still blows my mind. I can't imagine how much work and dedication went into learning this. Bravo
Thanks. Glad you like it. I was suffering from 7 months of Long Covid. Most days I had no energy to do anything, and then suddenly I would have tremendous energy…and caught this on video. I’m fine now, but could do with the boost I got for this video!
My wife heard this but wasn't watching and said - "That's a ukulele? I'm impressed!" I've never cared for ukuleles, but this has changed my perspective I have to say. Beautifully played - and with a plectrum. I might get one yet!
I'm happy to see that others are discovering the beauty of the fifths tuning on the ukulele. To me it is like turning a jangly toy sound into an actual instrument. I'm not saying that there aren't people who can make the ordinary tuning on the ukulele sound good, but the fifths tuning takes the ukulele up a few notches in tone.
Yes, BB, it does suddenly sound like a "real" instrument. Of course, it was all along, but now it seems to fit more within a living tradition, and is at peace with itself. I never expected that.
@@RobMacKillop1 Of course I'm not the classical music virtuoso... I just use it for some easy-listening somewhat folky pop music :) th-cam.com/video/FR4biCmHQss/w-d-xo.html
From the first note I knew this was something else, I never thought the ukulele could sound this beautiful. I wish you the best of a recovery and that you're resting well. Cheers from Brazil.
Thank you so much for these recordings. A concert ukulele in 5ths is my favorite instrument right now, but I can't really play anything on it yet. I could struggle through sheet music, but nothing compares to just sitting down and watching someone else play it!
I have been there too Rob, it took me just a month to recover from extreme weakness, it was awful, hang in there and get well soon...as usual your touch and musicality are a source of inspiration, Bach's cello suites and uke+MacKillop is a killer combination! I am going to give some of the pieces a shot following your banjo's book :)
Cheers, Pietro. I'm pleased to hear you have recovered. That gives me hope. I am almost there, but still sleep three times during the day, exhausted. It's just a matter of time. Best wishes!
Refua Sheleima in Hebrew - may you have a complete recovery. As for the music, I never would have thought that Bach's famous 1st cello suite could be played on a ukulele. Fantastic!
After having listened to this, Maestro, I grabbed your book, restrung my uke and locked myself up in my room. And your arrangement is not too hard, though I tried the fifths tuning for the first time. I guess an intermediate hobby player like me will get through this technically in a couple of hours , but will spend a lifetime to put half as much heart and soul into the uke as you do. For me, this intimate, tender interpretation is even more touching than the ones on the mighty droning cello. It`s magical. Thank you for the music (and stay on the scene)!
I think 5k other people will enjoy seeing this (I am sharing this on my social media). I am glad you are recovering! I hadn't known about the same tuning as the violin, which matters because then it is the same for mandolin. I am just learning the ukulele, banjolele, and mandolin. It helps me stay out of trouble. May you continue to get well and keep playing. I am so grateful for the ukulele community as there are so many gracious people sharing and advancing this instrument, like you are here! Thank you for this beautiful recording! More please. :-)
Thanks, Sharon. I have Long Covid, meaning the virus has gone, but my body is taking a long time to recover. But I'm definitely recovering 🙂 and messages like yours help. Music helps me too, music therapy is a wonderful thing. And yes, the mandolin repertoire can all be played on the ukulele in 5ths. The potential repertoire is HUGE. Get stuck in! 😎
I really enjoyed that. I only discovered your channel a couple of days ago and so glad I did. You have a treasure trove of video performances that I shall gradually work my way through. I have always been a particular fan of Bach. Lovely stuff.
I look forward to the rest of the cello suites. :) You play this so expressively. It can take a lifetime to master this series. I saw Yo yo Ma perform the set at the Hollywood Bowl. 1 chair, center stage under a solo spot. All from memory. I sat spellbound for about 3 hours as he built this huge arch of musical genius. The music flowed from him so gently and expressively. I studied this set of sonatas and partitas on violin many years ago. I think it's time to order a set of strings for my tenor uke.
Wow Awesome...just saw a video that was an overview on temperaments...”Musicians tuned to their taste and intuition” back in earlier periods...Music is an Aural Art...Papers and written music are only guidelines and clues. Ultimately play what sounds Good.
The timbre of a uke really works well for baroque music. Something in common with lute, I think. I realize fifths tuning is helpful to extend the range of a four-stringed instrument, but do you find either fifths or standard guitar tuning make these cello suites any easier to play? Or does it not make much difference? Beautiful performance.
Really, the easiest way to play the cello suites is in the tuning Bach wrote for. The music just falls under the fingers beautifully, and you can just concentrate on interpretation. Recommended!
@@RobMacKillop1 Have you tuned any of your guitars to 5ths? Perhaps making use of some strings from those Aquilla altered tuning sets? I would expect that to be really nice for the 6th suite. (BTW you've inspired me to dust off some of my ukeleles. I've ordered your book.)
@@eblackbrook I've no interest in tuning the guitar that way. I've heard others do it, and remain to be convinced. But never say never. Thanks for ordering my book! 🙂
I was actually looking on YT to see if anyone had attempted the Prelude from Violin Partita No. 3 on the uke. Couldn't find one. Maybe you should give it a go? :)@@RobMacKillop1
Bravo! I think Mr Bach wrote that piece especially for you, I think he would have been delighted to have heard you play it on the ukulele. So very interesting to hear, as it really didn't feel like an adaption of music from one instrument to another, but entirely natural and right. Thank you so much for sharing that, it really was a great pleasure to hear it. Kind Regards from New Zealand.
From a French woman in France.... Gorgeous ! You're a great Master ! I wish you all the best and a fast recovery (and sorry for my poor english.... but it is written with my heart...)
Wow, fantastic! I've never heard much played on a ukulele, clearly I need to look further into this. Best wishes for a quick and complete recovery. Thanks for posting again
Hi Rob, great music as ever from you. I had a few lessons with you many years ago and have always followed you on youtube since (and through your books), you're still teaching me this way. So glad to hear you are recovering, i know it can be a slow process, take care. Ritchie
I've received your book and ordered the strings you recommend for a tenor. In the meantime, I'm trying something I found suggested elsewhere on the web: tuning a baritone uke to C G D A using a set of requinto strings. Seems to work pretty well.
ive become interested in and have decided to start playing tenor guitar, which is very similar to the baritone ukulele. C-G-D-A is the standard tuning for tenor guitar and actually how I landed on this video (great work, Rob. I've listened to this performance countless times in the last few weeks). I'm excited to start playing an instrument in fifths tuning.
Well, Ben, I suggest you gut two of my books: Ukulele in 5ths Tuning, and Bach Cello Suites 1 - 3 for Tenor Banjo. Those two books will keep you occupied for a few years. Have fun! Rob
@@wendym2544 Hi Wendy. The strings I use are from Aquila, called 5ths Tuning (CGDA) for Concert ukulele, but I play a Tenor. So there is a chance the strings might break if I tune them to CGDA on the longer length of the tenor. So I tune them down a tone (two steps) to Bb F C G. By the way, you can’t use regular ukulele strings for 5ths tuning, you have to have a dedicated set. I’m not sure if I answered your questions, so if not ask again, but try to be very specific. Cheers, Rob
@@RobMacKillop1 Thanks so much Rob!. I play on a concert and don't have those strings. Your playing of this song sounds so good, that's why I asked. I was interested in changing the tuning (GCEA with a low G) I am using if it would sound better. But sounds like I'd have to get some strings etc......I love this song. I play it myself, and know it fully, but have a while to go until I get the speed up and play it well. Thanks!
This is great Rob. I keep listening to your version and really don't miss anything compared to the cello. I went to Hawaii earlier in the year and got a Kanile'a tenor. Amazing what 4 strings can do... I read a couple times the entire suite arranged by Thomas Preece (for standard high-G tuning) and it's a lovely piece to play on the uke. BTW I did not know that you had Covid-19 but I'm SO glad that you are recovering. Cheers Rob!
Hey, Kacper, great to hear from you. I have to admit, the ukulele in 5ths tuning feels a wonderful instrument, a "real" instrument, not a toy. Bach works perfectly on it, naturally, as this is the tuning he used. The extent of repertoire for 5ths tuning is enormous, so we will never run dry. Get yourself a set of Aquila Concert 5ths strings, and tune down a tone for the longer string length of the tenor. You'll be glad you did. I hope all is well, and that you are doing good research. Take care - I'm still recovering some 13 weeks after getting covid. It is to be avoided at all costs! Cheers, Rob.
Awesome ... I.m still on Rob.s 20 Easy Fingerstyle book. I.m improving steadily. Great book and TH-cam vids help massively. Lovely bloke, great player. Inspirational to me. Cheers.
I’m happy to see you!! I didn’t know you were sick although I worry about family and friends scattered around the world including my few TH-cam favorites. Take good care of yourself!
Thank you for the beautiful music, and the lovely inspiration for what a uke can do. I am an amateur harpsichord and clavichord player, but you have inspired me to pull out my ukulele and play. Feel better, and thank you so much for the generous gift of this music.
Rob MacKillop, Sadly there are a lot of untended unhappy harpsichords out there, we harpsichordist have to be very good about making sure all those quills are in good shape, that those ~183 strings are in tune to a reasonable temperament. Sometimes an instrument with only 4 strings is very inviting.
Rob - Really enjoyed this, especially on Ukulele. I played this entire suite as part of my senior recital in college, classical guitar major. While the Prelude is the piece that most people are familiar with, I love the Allemande, Sarabande and Minuets the most.
So, I really hope you are doing good again. I just stumpled across your version.. And as I am currently learning this beautiful piece of music.. I might just say.. I am pretty impressed. Sounds beautiful. Simple beautiful. I always wonder how long one does need to play those songs without mistakes. And might I ask.. Where can I purchase those music sheets..?
I’m doing fine, thanks. Glad you like it. I was reading from my Bach for Tenor Banjo album from Mel Bay - same tuning: www.melbay.com/Products/30430M/bachs-cello-suites-iiii-arranged-for-tenor-banjo.aspx
Love your style of playing Ukulele,... i hope your book on the "Ukulele in 5ths Tuning" will come out soon, so i can purchase it... in the mean time please also do let us know where we can purchase it (hardcopy). thx n cheers ... Sam
I loved to start to listen to this but sadly an ad popped up totally ruining immersion! But agree here with the comment below, incredible musician! Incredible passion I can tell you play with passion and it takes a lot to do so. Instant subscribe! xD I have to look these tunes up and play them myself I hate playing boring pop on ukulele or other genres like that they are truly depressing .. Thank you for sharing!
Sorry about the ads, which are beyond my control and are the scourge of TH-cam. Glad you like the music. I have a book called Ukulele in 5ths Tuning being published soon by Mel Bay. It will come with forty or so sound files.
Maestro MacKillop, the way you are playing "our" Bach brings tears to my eyes. When will you come to Berlin? Since I am a bit broke right now I shall donate for your coffee next month!!! ;-)! Promised... We love you Scottish!
Sitting with a Scottish single malt, listening to your unique playing. Both are getting better and better by the years. Sometimes life can feel so easy in a world gone mad. Too tipsy tonight to pluck your tunes, but just wondering which very one instrument you would chose to take with you on a lonesome island... Thanks for sharing your genius, Regards from Germany!
Hi Nikkie! Lovely to hear from you. You have a beautiful voice! Thank you for recording Gilbert's composition. Hopefully we will meet some day. Cheers, Rob.
Cool! Recently I listened this Bach's Suite for cello in dozen different interpretations, and my favorite one happened to be Misha Maisky's . I guess that Rob MacKillop with his ukulele is kind of the same great master.
@0:10 Prelude
@2:35 Allemande
@6:55 Courante
@10:06 Sarabande
@13:34 Minuets I & II
@16:33 Gigue
Thanks, saam. Appreciated. I have pinned it to being the top comment.
@@RobMacKillop1not that it shouldn't be enjoyed in its entirety :) but since I'm learning it movement by movement, it was helpful for myself :)
question, in your notation you don't have a slur on the ascending lines that start at the end of the 22nd measure, but you do play it that way here. I don't think most cello renditions do the slur either. Was it an in-the-moment creative inclination? You certainly nailed it (I can't).
@@saam6768 From many years of studying Bach and Weiss, I can say that slurs appear in different places with different editions or manuscripts. My impression is they put them in whenever and wherever they felt like. So that's what I do. And that decision could change with different performances. Good luck! Rob
please have a complete recovery to full strength. you are a youtube treasure admired by people from all over the world.
Thanks. I will from now on. I had to get this one out of my system!
I've been casually playing piano for 19 years and ukulele for 6 years now and this stuff still blows my mind. I can't imagine how much work and dedication went into learning this. Bravo
Thanks. Glad you like it. I was suffering from 7 months of Long Covid. Most days I had no energy to do anything, and then suddenly I would have tremendous energy…and caught this on video. I’m fine now, but could do with the boost I got for this video!
My wife heard this but wasn't watching and said - "That's a ukulele? I'm impressed!"
I've never cared for ukuleles, but this has changed my perspective I have to say. Beautifully played - and with a plectrum.
I might get one yet!
What's stopping you? 🙂
I've just bought your book of lute solos for plectrum guitar - that'll be plenty for me to be going on with! 🙂@@RobMacKillop1
@@gam1471 It sure will be! Good luck.
Thank you for showing the range of this lovely instrument. many people still think it’s a toy.
They do. But slowly attitudes are changing.
Just happened upon this. Absolutely brilliant, thank you.
Glad you like it! Many thanks. Rob
J'en ai les larmes aux yeux !... Qui pourrait croire que tant de beauté puisse sortir d'un gentil petit uke... 💜
Ou combien de beauté peut-on trouver dans un commentaire sur TH-cam. Un grand merci Bernadine !
Touching! So beautiful! Thank you!
As is your comment. Thank you!
Just bought your book. Looking forward to many hours of enjoyment!
Sorry for late reply! Thank you. I hope you are enjoying the book! Rob
One can never get enough of Bach.
Agreed, Carla!
Very beautiful and controlled playing and lovely tone. I play mandolin and strung a soprano uke in 5ths as it was easier to travel with on Ryan Air.
Cheers, Peter, and also many thanks for the coffee! Much appreciated.
So beautiful
Thanks, Calus!
Beautiful Cajun tuned mandolin-ukulele.
As someone who loves both ukulele and tenor guitar, this sounds beautiful. Very nice. This was a treat.
Cheers, HH. Glad you enjoyed it.
Found this lovely recording through a deep dive search for old time ukulele arrangements. I am so glad to have discovered your music. Life is good.
I'm happy to see that others are discovering the beauty of the fifths tuning on the ukulele. To me it is like turning a jangly toy sound into an actual instrument. I'm not saying that there aren't people who can make the ordinary tuning on the ukulele sound good, but the fifths tuning takes the ukulele up a few notches in tone.
Yes, BB, it does suddenly sound like a "real" instrument. Of course, it was all along, but now it seems to fit more within a living tradition, and is at peace with itself. I never expected that.
@@RobMacKillop1 Of course I'm not the classical music virtuoso... I just use it for some easy-listening somewhat folky pop music :) th-cam.com/video/FR4biCmHQss/w-d-xo.html
Perfect video for the morning. Nice and lively but enough complexity to get your brain moving.
Also interesting how you use p/i almost exclusively.
This is impressive. Minuetto I & II e Gigue impressionanti con 4 corde, grazie veramente!
Grazie, Franz!
Fantastic! Bach is timeless, of course, but on the uke, and in your hands, it sounds fresh. Really great.
Nice comment, Brad. Many thanks. Rob
From the first note I knew this was something else, I never thought the ukulele could sound this beautiful. I wish you the best of a recovery and that you're resting well. Cheers from Brazil.
Thank you! I am slowly recovering, but it is taking time. I'm not very good at relaxing!
Thank you so much for these recordings. A concert ukulele in 5ths is my favorite instrument right now, but I can't really play anything on it yet. I could struggle through sheet music, but nothing compares to just sitting down and watching someone else play it!
Thanks. If you haven’t done so, try my ‘Ukulele in 5ths Tuning’ book with soundfiles and TAB, published by Mel Bay. Good luck!
Your versatility just amazes me! It seems that if it has strings, you can play it. Bravo!
Thanks. Well, a lot of them have similar techniques. It’s just a matter of finding where the notes are.
You are an incredible Musician, and Maestro. Sincerely …
Cheers, Rain. Appreciated.
I have been there too Rob, it took me just a month to recover from extreme weakness, it was awful, hang in there and get well soon...as usual your touch and musicality are a source of inspiration, Bach's cello suites and uke+MacKillop is a killer combination! I am going to give some of the pieces a shot following your banjo's book :)
Cheers, Pietro. I'm pleased to hear you have recovered. That gives me hope. I am almost there, but still sleep three times during the day, exhausted. It's just a matter of time. Best wishes!
Beautiful Rob. Sorry to hear about you contracting the virus - but glad your recovering. The Uke and your playing both wonderful.
Cheers, Steve. Appreciated.
Refua Sheleima in Hebrew - may you have a complete recovery. As for the music, I never would have thought that Bach's famous 1st cello suite could be played on a ukulele. Fantastic!
Thanks, Micha. Lang may yer Lum reek in Scots - long might there be smoke in your chimney :-)
After having listened to this, Maestro, I grabbed your book, restrung my uke and locked myself up in my room. And your arrangement is not too hard, though I tried the fifths tuning for the first time. I guess an intermediate hobby player like me will get through this technically in a couple of hours , but will spend a lifetime to put half as much heart and soul into the uke as you do. For me, this intimate, tender interpretation is even more touching than the ones on the mighty droning cello. It`s magical. Thank you for the music (and stay on the scene)!
Ha, thank you, Frau. Your comment has touched me. Keep working on your music!
Best uke playing I've ever heard. 429 likes and 0 dislikes. TH-cam got it right.
Thanks, Josh. Appreciated.
I think 5k other people will enjoy seeing this (I am sharing this on my social media). I am glad you are recovering! I hadn't known about the same tuning as the violin, which matters because then it is the same for mandolin. I am just learning the ukulele, banjolele, and mandolin. It helps me stay out of trouble. May you continue to get well and keep playing. I am so grateful for the ukulele community as there are so many gracious people sharing and advancing this instrument, like you are here! Thank you for this beautiful recording! More please. :-)
Thanks, Sharon. I have Long Covid, meaning the virus has gone, but my body is taking a long time to recover. But I'm definitely recovering 🙂 and messages like yours help. Music helps me too, music therapy is a wonderful thing. And yes, the mandolin repertoire can all be played on the ukulele in 5ths. The potential repertoire is HUGE. Get stuck in! 😎
Be well! Thank you for being you and doing what you do!
Thanks, Swan. Thank you for saying what you say :-)
Absolutely beautifully playes
Thank you!
what a body of work! tremendous performance! especially considering the durations of these segments!
*** congratulations ***
Thanks, Marius. Bach was amazing.
@@RobMacKillop1 kinda like you ;-) wink wink
Really having a blast with your transcription of these suites ad my tenor Kamaka tuned in 5ths :)
It's the only tuning for these suites. I've tried the 5th suite - same good result. :-)
I really enjoyed that. I only discovered your channel a couple of days ago and so glad I did. You have a treasure trove of video performances that I shall gradually work my way through. I have always been a particular fan of Bach. Lovely stuff.
Where’ve you been, Jon?! 😀 Seriously, welcome!
@@RobMacKillop1 Better late that never :)
Thank you.
Cheers, Maxime :-)
I look forward to the rest of the cello suites. :) You play this so expressively. It can take a lifetime to master this series. I saw Yo yo Ma perform the set at the Hollywood Bowl. 1 chair, center stage under a solo spot. All from memory.
I sat spellbound for about 3 hours as he built this huge arch of musical genius. The music flowed from him so gently and expressively.
I studied this set of sonatas and partitas on violin many years ago. I think it's time to order a set of strings for my tenor uke.
What are you waiting for, Mike? Buy those strings, and get stuck in! :-)
Absolutely beautiful. Thank you.
Cheers, Rich. Appreciated.
Wow Awesome...just saw a video that was an overview on temperaments...”Musicians tuned to their taste and intuition” back in earlier periods...Music is an Aural Art...Papers and written music are only guidelines and clues. Ultimately play what sounds Good.
Yes, musicians sound best when they listen to their ears :-)
That was beautiful. Thank you for posting that - but more importantly, hope you are getting better.
Thanks. It's just a slow post-viral recovery now. Could take a while, apparently.
Thank you for sharing this. My ears and soul are better for it.
Good to know, Ralph. Cheers.
Get well soon!
Thanks, Ritesh!
The timbre of a uke really works well for baroque music. Something in common with lute, I think. I realize fifths tuning is helpful to extend the range of a four-stringed instrument, but do you find either fifths or standard guitar tuning make these cello suites any easier to play? Or does it not make much difference? Beautiful performance.
Really, the easiest way to play the cello suites is in the tuning Bach wrote for. The music just falls under the fingers beautifully, and you can just concentrate on interpretation. Recommended!
@@RobMacKillop1 Have you tuned any of your guitars to 5ths? Perhaps making use of some strings from those Aquilla altered tuning sets? I would expect that to be really nice for the 6th suite. (BTW you've inspired me to dust off some of my ukeleles. I've ordered your book.)
@@eblackbrook I've no interest in tuning the guitar that way. I've heard others do it, and remain to be convinced. But never say never. Thanks for ordering my book! 🙂
Loved it. Thanks Rob.
Hi Ken. Haven't seen you for a while. Thanks for the nice comment. I hope you are well and thriving! Cheers, Rob
Hi Rob. We are fine, thanks. Hope you are too. I don't know about you, but I am looking forward to doing some travelling as soon as they let us free.
Happy recovery Rob. May good music overcome disease and bring light to all of us.
Indeed, sir! Thank you.
Rob
You get well soon. Playing music is incredible therapy...so is listening to beautiful music like yours.
Thank you Rob
Cheers, Steve. I'll pay for it!
Wonderful, I wish you a speedy recovery, stay safe.
I’m fine now, Andy. Many thanks!
Very nice! I was surprised to see to see you using a pick (or, plectrum as they say over there.)
Thanks, Jason. I play mandolin too, so I was coming from that direction. But I play it fingerstyle too when the mood strikes.
I was actually looking on YT to see if anyone had attempted the Prelude from Violin Partita No. 3 on the uke. Couldn't find one. Maybe you should give it a go? :)@@RobMacKillop1
@@650mm Maybe you could? 😎 The Chaconne awaits 😂
@@RobMacKillop1 🤣🤣
molto bravo! thank you for this wonderful performance
Thank you!
I LOVE all your videos. Thank you!-Michael Herndon
Cheers, Michael! I love your comment.
Wonderful.
Glad you like it, Kerstin!
Porfvor sube mas videos ticando el ukelele suena excelente es un deleite al oido , 🙏gracias
Thank you!
Bravo! I think Mr Bach wrote that piece especially for you, I think he would have been delighted to have heard you play it on the ukulele. So very interesting to hear, as it really didn't feel like an adaption of music from one instrument to another, but entirely natural and right. Thank you so much for sharing that, it really was a great pleasure to hear it. Kind Regards from New Zealand.
Thanks, Peter. I love playing Bach, and he feels right at home in this tuning and instrument. Glad you like it!
amazing! 😇
I forgot to say that I used to play cello so I cannot wait to try this tuning! What a fun idea!
Indeed, Paula, it is fun. Get stuck in!
From a French woman in France.... Gorgeous ! You're a great Master ! I wish you all the best and a fast recovery (and sorry for my poor english.... but it is written with my heart...)
J'aime votre comment! Sorry for my poor French! :-)
Wow, fantastic! I've never heard much played on a ukulele, clearly I need to look further into this. Best wishes for a quick and complete recovery. Thanks for posting again
Cheers, Rowan. I think of its European roots in the Renaissance guitar...but that's a long story.
Hi Rob, great music as ever from you. I had a few lessons with you many years ago and have always followed you on youtube since (and through your books), you're still teaching me this way. So glad to hear you are recovering, i know it can be a slow process, take care. Ritchie
Cheers, Ritchie. Good to know my teaching didn't put you off music forever ;-)
Beautiful and inspiring! I have been practicing the Cello Suite Prelude for years. Wishing you a speedy recovery from Canada!
Cheers, David. Appreciated.
I've received your book and ordered the strings you recommend for a tenor. In the meantime, I'm trying something I found suggested elsewhere on the web: tuning a baritone uke to C G D A using a set of requinto strings. Seems to work pretty well.
Interesting idea. Never thought of that. Hmm.
ive become interested in and have decided to start playing tenor guitar, which is very similar to the baritone ukulele. C-G-D-A is the standard tuning for tenor guitar and actually how I landed on this video (great work, Rob. I've listened to this performance countless times in the last few weeks). I'm excited to start playing an instrument in fifths tuning.
Well, Ben, I suggest you gut two of my books: Ukulele in 5ths Tuning, and Bach Cello Suites 1 - 3 for Tenor Banjo. Those two books will keep you occupied for a few years. Have fun! Rob
@@RobMacKillop1 i will certainly be picking up your cello suites transcription ;)
I only recently (and thanks to you actually) discovered the joy of playing this in a lower tuning - so much nicer!
Good to know! Keep at it!
How do you play it in a lower tuning? Thank you! Can you explain?
@@wendym2544 Hi Wendy. The strings I use are from Aquila, called 5ths Tuning (CGDA) for Concert ukulele, but I play a Tenor. So there is a chance the strings might break if I tune them to CGDA on the longer length of the tenor. So I tune them down a tone (two steps) to Bb F C G. By the way, you can’t use regular ukulele strings for 5ths tuning, you have to have a dedicated set. I’m not sure if I answered your questions, so if not ask again, but try to be very specific. Cheers, Rob
@@RobMacKillop1 Thanks so much Rob!. I play on a concert and don't have those strings. Your playing of this song sounds so good, that's why I asked. I was interested in changing the tuning (GCEA with a low G) I am using if it would sound better. But sounds like I'd have to get some strings etc......I love this song. I play it myself, and know it fully, but have a while to go until I get the speed up and play it well. Thanks!
Brilliant.
Cheers, Rob. Glad you like it.
This is great Rob. I keep listening to your version and really don't miss anything compared to the cello. I went to Hawaii earlier in the year and got a Kanile'a tenor. Amazing what 4 strings can do... I read a couple times the entire suite arranged by Thomas Preece (for standard high-G tuning) and it's a lovely piece to play on the uke. BTW I did not know that you had Covid-19 but I'm SO glad that you are recovering. Cheers Rob!
Hey, Kacper, great to hear from you. I have to admit, the ukulele in 5ths tuning feels a wonderful instrument, a "real" instrument, not a toy. Bach works perfectly on it, naturally, as this is the tuning he used. The extent of repertoire for 5ths tuning is enormous, so we will never run dry. Get yourself a set of Aquila Concert 5ths strings, and tune down a tone for the longer string length of the tenor. You'll be glad you did. I hope all is well, and that you are doing good research. Take care - I'm still recovering some 13 weeks after getting covid. It is to be avoided at all costs! Cheers, Rob.
Awesome ... I.m still on Rob.s 20 Easy Fingerstyle book. I.m improving steadily. Great book and TH-cam vids help massively. Lovely bloke, great player. Inspirational to me. Cheers.
Cheers, Mark. Good luck with your studies!
Glad to hear you are continuing to recover. Some fine playing there sir, most enjoyable.
Cheers, David. Glad you like it.
I’m happy to see you!! I didn’t know you were sick although I worry about family and friends scattered around the world including my few TH-cam favorites. Take good care of yourself!
Thanks, Paula. I wish you and yours all the best!
speedy recovery and keep posting new videos sir, i really enjoy your playing
Thank you!
Sir, this is just beautiful. :,) Thank you for sharing such beautifully played songs :,)
Thank you. Glad you like it!
awesome playing man. i play my ukulele in 5ths, and love bach too.
Good to know!
Hi Rob, very, very beautiful! I am glad you recorded it.
And I'm glad you heard it, Jelma!
So glad to hear that you are recovering well. Fantastic performance, thanks very much and stay well.🇬🇧🎶🎸🌞🌻
Cheers, David. Appreciated.
Bravo! I hope this is in your book.
It's in this book of mine: www.melbay.com/Products/31090M/play-the-ukulele-in-5ths-tuning.aspx
@@RobMacKillop1 Ordered it.
@@wooac Excellent. Lots of good stuff in there, fingerstyle or plectrum.
Great to know you're getting better and better. The suite sounds wonderful on the uke, good job Rob!!!
Cheers, my friend. It's the lightest instrument I have - useful when convalescing.
@@RobMacKillop1 The lightest but in your hands it sounds great and so sweet...Thanks for your effort!!!
What a beautiful sound! I'm sure Bach would have approved your performance. Thank you so much for this wonderful vídeo. Hope you are feeling better.
Getting there, Fred. By the way, Bach loved strumming the old uke of an evening. ;-)
@@RobMacKillop1 😁
A Cremonese mandola!
We're all glad to hear that you're feeling better. The last few months have been tough.
Exactly. This is not far removed at all from the Cremonese mandolin.
BRAVISSIMO
Thank you for the beautiful music, and the lovely inspiration for what a uke can do. I am an amateur harpsichord and clavichord player, but you have inspired me to pull out my ukulele and play. Feel better, and thank you so much for the generous gift of this music.
Cheers, William. I love a good harpsichord, loathe a bad one ;-)
Rob MacKillop, Sadly there are a lot of untended unhappy harpsichords out there, we harpsichordist have to be very good about making sure all those quills are in good shape, that those ~183 strings are in tune to a reasonable temperament. Sometimes an instrument with only 4 strings is very inviting.
Beautiful.
Rob - Really enjoyed this, especially on Ukulele. I played this entire suite as part of my senior recital in college, classical guitar major. While the Prelude is the piece that most people are familiar with, I love the Allemande, Sarabande and Minuets the most.
Thanks, Lee. You can't beat Bach! I think the Allemande is my fav in the suite, but they are all wonderful pieces.
So, I really hope you are doing good again. I just stumpled across your version.. And as I am currently learning this beautiful piece of music.. I might just say.. I am pretty impressed. Sounds beautiful. Simple beautiful. I always wonder how long one does need to play those songs without mistakes. And might I ask.. Where can I purchase those music sheets..?
I’m doing fine, thanks. Glad you like it. I was reading from my Bach for Tenor Banjo album from Mel Bay - same tuning:
www.melbay.com/Products/30430M/bachs-cello-suites-iiii-arranged-for-tenor-banjo.aspx
Love your style of playing Ukulele,... i hope your book on the "Ukulele in 5ths Tuning" will come out soon, so i can purchase it... in the mean time please also do let us know where we can purchase it (hardcopy). thx n cheers ... Sam
Cheers, Sam. The publisher is working on the cover design. So we are very close. I’ll make a video to promote it once it is available.
Here it is, Sam: www.melbay.com/Products/31090M/play-the-ukulele-in-5ths-tuning.aspx
Definitely getting your banjo book now. I have your ukulele books. Thank you.
Great. I think I'll write a book for ukulele in 5ths.
That was wonderful, Rob! Hope for a full recovery soon! Cheers, Bernd
Thanks, Bernd. I'm getting there.
Amazing!!!!! Nice playing!!!
Cheers, Billy. Glad you like it.
What a sound. Wish you all the best Rob. Thank you for the music.
Thanks, Petr. Appreciated!
Sometimes it takes sooo looong to get well! I know the feeling from having the flu. We are all wishing you well.
Cheers, Stephen.
Bravissimo, Maestro! :)
Thank you!
@@RobMacKillop1 Is this a tenor ukulele?
@@catena92 Yes. With strings for a Concert ukulele, tuned down a tone to compensate for the extra length.
@@RobMacKillop1 Thank you!
Beautiful. Thanks for sharing. Best wishes for a full and speedy recovery
Cheers Scout. I'm getting there.
Rob, I have always enjoyed your videos. Thank you for continually uploading, and I hope that you have recovered splendidly.
Cheers, Nathan. I'm working on it.
I loved to start to listen to this but sadly an ad popped up totally ruining immersion! But agree here with the comment below, incredible musician! Incredible passion I can tell you play with passion and it takes a lot to do so.
Instant subscribe! xD
I have to look these tunes up and play them myself I hate playing boring pop on ukulele or other genres like that they are truly depressing ..
Thank you for sharing!
Sorry about the ads, which are beyond my control and are the scourge of TH-cam. Glad you like the music. I have a book called Ukulele in 5ths Tuning being published soon by Mel Bay. It will come with forty or so sound files.
I finally decided to pay for TH-cam Premium to get rid of the ads. I didn't hear any ads on this.
Maestro MacKillop, the way you are playing "our" Bach brings tears to my eyes. When will you come to Berlin? Since I am a bit broke right now I shall donate for your coffee next month!!! ;-)! Promised... We love you Scottish!
Dear Gioia, thank you for your beautiful comment. One day I would love to visit Berlin, but not this year. Best wishes to you from Edinburgh!
@@RobMacKillop1 Well, this year is soon over ;-)! Wishing you a speedy recovery from C.
This works beautifully on the ukulele - thank you.
Cheers, Lewis. Glad you like it.
Спасибо! Великолепно!
Спасибо, мой друг!
Sitting with a Scottish single malt, listening to your unique playing. Both are getting better and better by the years. Sometimes life can feel so easy in a world gone mad. Too tipsy tonight to pluck your tunes, but just wondering which very one instrument you would chose to take with you on a lonesome island... Thanks for sharing your genius, Regards from
Germany!
People often ask what my favourite instrument is, and I always say "the one I'm playing". I couldn't choose one above the others.
Lovely Rob, especially to hear the whole suite at once!
Thanks, Linda. Yes there's more than just the prelude :-)
Beautiful work.
Glad you like it!
Heavenly! How can i tune my tenor ukulele to play this?
You can buy the 5ths Tuning Concert set from Aquila. I tuned them down a tone from CGDA for my tenor.
@@RobMacKillop1 Thank you very much! Do you have an email address where I can reach you?
@@vedashreemahajan5351 You can find it here: guitarlessonsedinburgh.com/2012/08/29/hello-world/
This is lovely, Rob. (I'm the one who sang Round within Round and Autumn for you and Gilbert Isbin)
Hi Nikkie! Lovely to hear from you. You have a beautiful voice! Thank you for recording Gilbert's composition. Hopefully we will meet some day. Cheers, Rob.
Cool! Recently I listened this Bach's Suite for cello in dozen different interpretations, and my favorite one happened to be Misha Maisky's .
I guess that Rob MacKillop with his ukulele is kind of the same great master.
Too high praise, my friend. But I appreciate your sentiment. Cheers.
Sweet and beautiful I love this
Glad you like it, Bobby.
wow so great