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Bach, Johann Sebastian : Englische Suiten Nr.3 Allemande

Work Overview

Music ID : 39098
Instrumentation:Piano Solo 
Genre:allemande
Total Playing Time:4 min 40 sec
Copyright:Public Domain

Commentary (1)

Author : Ooi, Kazurou

Last Updated: April 1, 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.

Regardless of the emotional expression, this Allemande possesses immense beauty. This beauty can be reproduced by flowing smoothly horizontally, so great care should be taken to avoid producing harsh sounds. It is perfectly acceptable to linger (take time) slightly at the cadential points before moving on.

In both the first and second halves, identify the likely peak points and give them direction. In the first half, this might be the third beat of measure 5, where both hands expand.

In the second half, it might be the fourth beat of measure 19, but since it is harmonically a calm section, it could be other places. These are left to the performer.

One point to note in this Allemande concerns notes with two stems emanating from a single note head. This indicates at least two voices in that section, and thus the volume should be increased. Examples include the left-hand C on the first beat of measure 14, and the left-hand G on the first beat of measure 19. Both of these examples are resolutions (of chords), and normally they would be played softer than the preceding notes; however, doing so would obscure the two-voice texture.

In such passages, even if they are resolutions, emphasize the note, maintain its full note value (e.g., sustain it for the full dotted eighth note in measure 14), and ensure the polyphonic texture is audible.

Writer: Ooi, Kazurou