Bach Cello Suite 1 tab for ocatave mandolin????

[j. condino]

Does anyone know of a solid tab for the Back cello suite 1 for octave mandolin (or regular mandolin) in the correct key of G? I've seen several in D but none in G.

Thx,

j.

[Martin Jonas]

I wouldn't recommend playing the cello suites in the original key on OM. The reason why versions for OM or violin are usually transposed up a fifth is that this way they can be played using Bach's intended fingering. These pieces are intended for fifths tuning in CGDA, and only in that tuning and with that fingering with the harmonies build up and the ergonomics of fingering work as intended by the composer.

If there is some absolutely pressing reason why you must play it in D and not in G (e.g. you want to play in unison with a cellist), I suggest you capo at the fifth fret and play in CGDA (mandola) tuning.

Martin