The performance of Bach: Study of rhythmic timing by skilled musicians

The purpose of the present investigation was to analyze 15 performances of Bach's Suite Number 3 for Violoncello solo, Bourree Number 1 and determine what patterns of rhythmic variation (rubato) were used by the soloists. Data were collected directly from digital recordings of performances, and researchers used computerized analysis methods to determine the onsets of each beat to the nearest millisecond. Results indicated that the soloists demonstrated four identifiable and similar trends in these performances: (a) performances of new phrases began a little slower to emphasize the beginning of the new phrase, followed by an acceleration; (b) each repetition of a sequence was quickened; (c) conclusions of a musical idea were marked by a noticeable deceleration several beats in advance of that conclusion; and (d) there were several variations in timing that could be linked to physical challenges inherent in the musical instrument.