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Bach, Johann Sebastian : 6 Partiten Nr.6 Sarabande

Work Overview

Music ID : 39188
Instrumentation:Piano Solo 
Genre:salabande
Total Playing Time:6 min 50 sec
Copyright:Public Domain

Commentary (1)

Author : Ooi, Kazurou

Last Updated: January 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.

This sarabande contains many notes of very short duration, requiring it to be played at an extremely slow tempo. This inherent characteristic makes it easy to lose the beat (for both the performer and the listener), which is the most crucial aspect to manage when performing this sarabande.

Improvisation is a crucial and essential element. However, the performer must also consider the listener who is mentally counting the beat. While this may seem contradictory, the recognition (counting) of the beat must still be maintained even while incorporating improvisational elements. The performance should enable listeners to clearly perceive the triple meter.

A useful technique in this regard is subdivision. Counting one beat per quarter note becomes too difficult due to the extremely slow tempo; therefore, it is advisable to count one beat as two eighth notes. This approach makes it very clear when excessive time is being taken in unnecessary places.

Writer: Ooi, Kazurou