This work is transmitted in the Scheibe-Gleichauf Manuscript (for details, see Prelude and Fugue in A minor, BWV 897). Its authenticity is doubted based on its style.

The fugue, in particular, exhibits immaturity in its voice leading and counterpoint, and a prominent overuse of parallel thirds and sixths. Consequently, the texture lacks variety, and the sound lacks depth. Furthermore, the modulations are commonplace, with no distant keys appearing. The piece progresses by stringing together clichés, which can make it feel redundant. However, this kind of monotonous development is sometimes observed in Bach's early works.

The fantasia, on the other hand, begins with a graceful Neapolitan sixth chord (E-flat), and progresses slowly through a combination of suspensions and sigh motifs. This style is considered an imitation of the Italian style by German musicians; that is, it is typical of the early 18th century.

There is no decisive evidence to deny Bach's authorship for either piece. However, regardless of the true author, the fugue in particular can hardly be said to satisfy the expectations of its extensive scale.