Learning Supplements for Intermediate Song 7: Minuet in G (Petzold)

from the book 30 Progressive Duets for Low-G Ukulele

Buy Here: https://www.kevincarroll.net/30-progressive-duets-for-low-g-ukulele

History and Background

This Minuet in G major has long been misattributed to Johann Sebastian Bach. It is a short, elegant piece that is often one of the first pieces that musicians learn to play on the keyboard. It appears in the Notebook for Anna Magdalena Bach, a collection of music compiled by Bach for his second wife.

However, the piece was actually composed by Christian Petzold, a friend of Bach's who would write short pieces for Bach's family. The piece was originally thought to beby Bach because it appeared in the Notebook for Anna Magdalena Bach, which was compiled by Bach. The piece was likely intended as teaching material for Bach's children.

Here are some other facts about the Minuet in G major:

• The piece is in a simple, two-part contrapuntal style.

• It is often paired with the Minuet in G minor, BWV Anh. 115, and the two pieces are intended to be played together.

• The 1965 pop song "A Lover's Concerto" is based on the first of these Minuets.

• The piece can be easily arranged for any instrument or ensemble.

The minuet was a popular dance in the 17th century, especially at the court of King Louis XIV of France. The dance originated in France and was a type of two-person dance in 3/4 time.

Minuet in G Learning Supplement: Useful Scales

Audio Play-Along

Uke 1 covers a lot of fretboard real estate on this piece. The first section is in the 7th position with an occasional reach backwards to the F# on the 6th fret of the C string as in measure 7, among others. The second half of the tune takes us to the 10th position and includes reaches up to the 14th frets of the A and E strings while dropping bak to the 7th position and finally concluding in the 1st position with a G chord. Consciously breathe as you navigate the upper realms of the ukulele. This really does help.

Uke 2 begins in the 2nd position and drops down to the 1st position for measure 22. The remainder could be played in either 1st or 2nd position.

Minuet in G Uke 1

Minuet in G Uke 2

Minuet in G Both Parts