The Prelude (Andante, completed January 11, 1951) is structured in the style of a chaconne, a classical variation form. The theme, consisting of a clear melody and accompaniment, possesses a poignant expression, and as the piece progresses, passages of finer note values are decoratively added upon it.

According to Aleksandr Dolzhansky, a Russian scholar contemporary with Shostakovich, the Fuga (3 voices, Adagio, completed January 13, 1951) is underpinned by the improvisation found in Russian folk songs. The subject, as if pulsating, expands and contracts both rhythmically and in note value as it transitions to the dominant, and is successively woven through each voice. The interplay between short and long note values continues until the end of the piece, creating a unique atmosphere reminiscent of deep contemplation.