This is an arrangement of the Minuetto, the fifth movement from Cello Suite No. 1 by J.S. Bach, arranged for 15/14 hammered dulcimer. The Minuetto is an extremely popular Baroque dance. It often is presented in pairs which are played back to back. After playing the second Minuetto, the first is revisited and played once through without the repeats.

The first Minuetto only required one octave shift of a C3 in measure 18 to fit the 15/14 size. However, the second Minuetto required the most alteration to fit the 15/14 range. To keep the musical flow, I sometimes shifted phrases instead of individual notes. There are changes to the octave in measures 25 – 32, 40, 45, and 46.

You will need the D#/Eb at the top of the bass bridge for this movement. You likely will be able to tune the top note up to the desired pitch, though you may need to switch to a lighter string gauge.

Included are two versions of this movement from Bach’s Cello Suite #1 in G Major. One is a blank copy of the music, arranged for the 15/14 hammered dulcimer, allowing you to make any notations or marks that you find helpful. The second version is the transcription of how I have chosen to play the movement. A description of the markings I use in my arrangement is included.