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Bach, Johann Sebastian : Prelude und Fuge Nr.20 Prelude Nr.20 a-moll

Work Overview

Music ID : 62152
Instrumentation:Piano Solo 
Genre:pieces
Total Playing Time:1 min 10 sec
Copyright:Public Domain

Commentary (1)

Author : Ooi, Kazurou

Last Updated: July 17, 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.

While the character and atmosphere of A minor in Bach's works are difficult to pinpoint, it can be inferred that slow A minor pieces often convey a sense of heaviness, darkness, and sorrow. Examples include the Prelude and Fugue in A minor from Book II of the Well-Tempered Clavier, and Sinfonia No. 13. Conversely, fast-tempo A minor pieces often exhibit a sense of joy, such as Invention No. 13, English Suite No. 2, and Violin Concerto No. 1.

This Prelude from Book I can also be approached with an upbeat tempo. In other words, it is appropriate to play it with a sense of joy and an optimistic character.

Furthermore, this Prelude possesses strong ensemble elements. Therefore, consider questions such as "How many instruments are playing in this section?" and build the ensemble accordingly. For instance, in measure 16, a relatively large number of instruments are playing, resulting in many voices, and the bass and soprano are quite separated. However, in measure 17, even if there are three instruments, assume a smaller ensemble. Play with a P (piano) dynamic, then in measure 18, where many instruments play again, suddenly switch to forte. Subsequently, in measure 19, as the instrumentation is the same as in measure 17, suddenly return to P. Performers should organize the ensemble and determine dynamics as they see fit, playing with a steady flow and a sense of enjoyment.

Writer: Ooi, Kazurou
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