Finale from Symphony in D Major, W. 27

Tripartite sinfonias of this era were stylistically akin to the Italian opera overtures first heard in the 17th century. The typical format was for a lively allegro followed by a lyrical slow section and then a rousing finale, most often in rondo form. This work certainly conforms to this formula. Originally for pairs of oboes, bassoons, horns, trumpets, and timpani, the adaptation for strings was rather easy, as only the brass and timpani parts deviate – and only slightly – from the melodic and harmonic elements. The work was originally published in 1782 after Bach's death in a composite score as Six Grand Overtures.