Bach, Johann Sebastian : Suite Prelude
Work Overview
Genre:suite
Total Playing Time:1 min 00 sec
Copyright:Public Domain
Commentary (1)
Author : Ooi, Kazurou
Last Updated: January 19, 2024
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Author : Ooi, Kazurou
For Bach, B-flat major is a key of dignity, one that subtly evokes a sense of luxury. This atmosphere can be clearly perceived by listening to works such as the Partita in B-flat major. This Prelude in B-flat major also possesses such nobility in that sense.
The theme (subject) can be assumed to begin in the soprano in measure 1 and conclude on F in measure 2. As this theme subsequently appears in different voices and at varying entry points (e.g., commencing on the fourth beat), it is advisable to emphasize it each time it occurs.
The peak point of this piece is measure 13, where the soprano reaches its highest note, C. Therefore, the musical direction should lead towards this measure. Alternatively, measure 16 can also be considered a peak point, as the bass presents the theme there, and the overall texture is denser than in measure 13.
This piece primarily proceeds in three voices; however, from the fourth beat of measure 17, a bass pedal point (organ point) emerges, resulting in a four-voice texture. Play with a sense of grandeur and scale.