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Home > Bach, Johann Sebastian > 5 Praludium und Fughetta > Prelude und Fugetta d-moll

Bach, Johann Sebastian : 5 Praludium und Fughetta Prelude und Fugetta d-moll BWV 899

Work Overview

Music ID : 38234
Instrumentation:Piano Solo 
Genre:pieces
Total Playing Time:3 min 00 sec
Copyright:Public Domain

Commentary (1)

Author : Ooi, Kazurou

Last Updated: October 6, 2023
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Note: This article is automatically translated from the original Japanese text. The author of the original work did not supervise this translation.

Considering the character of the piece, which is not dynamic, a tempo slower than Moderato is recommended. Andante might be appropriate. Regardless of the chosen tempo, this prelude presents a certain challenge. The organ points (pedal points) are written for such an extended duration that one might imagine the piece was originally intended for organ. Even when played on a modern piano, these notes will sustain for at most two measures, or perhaps even less (although the sound physically sustains, it becomes inaudible).

Therefore, one suggestion is as follows:

  • Re-strike the bass D in measure 3.
  • Similarly, re-strike the bass A in measure 8.
  • Likewise, re-strike the bass A in measure 24.

By doing so, the bass notes can be sustained effectively as pedal points.

Let us assume that the theme of this piece begins in the right hand in measure 1 and extends to the first note, A, in measure 2. This theme undergoes variations throughout the piece, changing keys or starting on different notes even within the same key. Each time, the performer should vary the volume and timbre to create a different mood.

Writer: Ooi, Kazurou