Bach, Johann Sebastian : Concerto e fuge c-moll BWV 909
Work Overview
Genre：Various works
Total Playing Time：9 min 50 sec
Copyright：Public Domain
Commentary (2)
Author : Asayama, Natsuko
Last Updated: May 1, 2008
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Author : Asayama, Natsuko
Although it is an extremely rare example combining a concerto movement and a fugue, based on its musical content, it is not considered to be a work by Bach.
The concerto designates the tutti sections as 'Andante' and the solo sections as 'Allegro'. The first 'Allegro' and the second one feature an exchange of parts between the hands. However, the tutti does not immediately return, and continuous repetitions of triads and brilliant passage work persist endlessly. Such a style, whether in keyboard music or chamber music, is not characteristic of Bach's works.
The subject of the fugue also bears little resemblance to Bach's typical subjects. Moreover, contrapuntal development is almost entirely absent, the voice writing is extremely free, and toccata-like runs and repeated chords played by both hands are inserted throughout.
Author : Ooi, Kazurou
Last Updated: October 30, 2023
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Author : Ooi, Kazurou
Although this original piece is apparently not by Bach himself, it is composed as if specifically for the organ, and therefore requires ingenuity to perform on a modern piano.
The challenge lies in the repeated chords of the Allegro section. While these might originally be played with a heavy, ponderous sound, performing them on a modern piano results in a very mechanical and jarring sound.
Within the Allegro section, there is a passage where the left hand plays repeated chords in eighth notes while the right hand plays septuplets. First, choose a tempo that allows these septuplets to be heard clearly and is not overly fast. Furthermore, whether it is the left hand or the right hand, once the repeated chords begin, they should be played as leggiero and p as possible, with short staccatos. The sound must never become loud or heavy. All repeated chords in the Allegro section of this piece should be performed in this manner.
To create contrast, the Andante section should be played with a certain amount of pedal, fully expressing its beauty, and with an improvisatory feel. This will establish a clear contrast with the Allegro section, allowing for distinct differentiation.