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Bach, Johann Sebastian : Englische Suiten Nr.5 Passepied I(Rondeau) -II

Work Overview

Music ID : 39113
Instrumentation:Piano Solo 
Genre:suite
Total Playing Time:3 min 00 sec
Copyright:Public Domain

Commentary (1)

Author : Ooi, Kazurou

Last Updated: February 19, 2024
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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.

The term "Passepied" refers to a light-footed dance popular in France during the 17th-18th centuries, characterized as a "fast-tempo dance." There are no specific tempo rules, so the tempo is flexible. However, in the author's personal opinion, when considering the upcoming Gigue, it is advisable to choose a tempo that is not excessively fast, yet maintains a sprightly feel, in order to create a contrast.

As it is a sprightly dance, the tempo should generally be kept steady, close to a metronomic pace. Be mindful of the beat, and in sections consisting solely of 16th notes, take care to prevent the tempo from rushing forward (i.e., becoming too fast).

The piece modulates through E minor, G major, B minor, and A minor in Passepied I, and then to E major and B major in Passepied II. Try to imbue each key with its own distinct character, creating contrast.

Writer: Ooi, Kazurou