Prelude

The Prelude (Moderato), according to one of the autograph manuscripts, was completed as a fair copy on October 10, 1950 (listed as Autograph C in the Shostakovich Collected Works published by DSCH; all subsequent completion dates mentioned are likewise based on this source). It is a tranquil piece characterized by a dance-like rhythm in two-bar units, reminiscent of a sarabande. It is likely no coincidence that the piece begins in the same register as Bach's Well-Tempered Clavier. Another characteristic feature is that, apart from short yet expressive cadenza-like passages interspersed throughout, the entire piece is constructed from chords.

Fugue

The Fugue (4 voices, Moderato, completed October 11, 1950), like the Prelude, possesses a serene character while also being rigorously constructed. Its speaking-like theme is said to evoke ancient Russian church chants. Furthermore, the piece is played entirely on white keys without a single exception, and from the point where the second voice is introduced, most measures are filled with an uninterrupted basic rhythm of quarter notes, thereby conveying an overall impression of balance and stability.