Chorale Files, Accuracy and Responsibility
Anyone using the Bach midi files should check the accuracy of the parts with a reliable edition of the chorales.
Because many errors have been found in the chorale files at JSBChorales.net, I am embarking on a proofreading mission through all the files. At the same time I will change measure numbers so that pick-up measures are not included in the numbering, as is the standard.
Since I work full time, this complete update will take considerable time. Revised files will be listed on the the update page as they are completed.
Be aware that copies of files on another person's server may not be correct. I can not be responsible for updating files on another person's server, even if my name is attached to them. My name associated with copies on another person's website does not mean that they have been been kept current.
In general people who wish to link to the files have been helpful and cooperative and have linked to my pages so that incorrect files are not proliferated.
Also, be aware that when the midi files are imported into a notation program, accidentals may be enharmonically incorrect. For instance a G sharp may be notated as an A flat.
If possible, please always check files against a reliable edition.
Chorale Editions
An overview and comparison of the editions of the chorales.
I have used the following editions in the preparation of the midi files of the chorales appearing on JSBChorales.net. Initially I used the Riemenschneider edition; it has some misprints and misleading voice notations, and coupled with input errors on my part there have been many errors uncovered in the chorales through the years. I have done ongoing corrections when I or a reader has found errors. As you can see on the Update page, many people have contributed to the correction process.
For singers, the Kalmus edition is convenient, has the German words to the chorales, is accurate and a nice size. For keyboard players, the Musica Budapest edition is reliable, a good size and easy to read.
| J.S. Bach Four Part Chorales
by Johann Sebastian Bach, Imre Sulyok (Editor), Editio Musica Budapest 1982 Note: Reliable |
| Bach Chorales from the C.P.E.Bach Collection
by Johann Sebastian Bach, Frieder Rempp (Editor), Barenreiter 2002; Catalog number 5237 Note: New Bach Work Edition. Generally reliable. See note below. |
| Bach 389 Chorales
by Johann Sebastian Bach, Kalmus Edition, Belwin Mills Publishing Corp. Kalmus Catalog K06002. Note: Old Bach Work Edition, I have found no errors. |
| Bach 371 Harmonized Chorales
ed Riemenschneider, G. Schirmer 1941 Note: Old Bach Work Edition, many errors. |
| J.S. Bach Complete Church Cantatas
by Johann Sebastian Bach, CD Sheet Music, LLC, distributed by Theodore Presser. Note: Old Bach Work Edition, vocal scores with piano reduction. |
| J.S. Bach Keyboard Music and 371 Chorales
by Johann Sebastian Bach, CD Sheet Music, LLC, distributed by Theodore Presser. Note: This is a digitized Riemenschneider. |
