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Bach, Johann Sebastian : Englische Suiten Nr.4 Menuet

Work Overview

Music ID : 39107
Instrumentation:Piano Solo 
Genre:menuetto
Total Playing Time:4 min 20 sec
Copyright:Public Domain

Commentary (1)

Author : Ooi, Kazurou

Last Updated: February 19, 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.

This minuet allows one to feel Bach's gentle side even in F major. Although the second of these two minuets is written in a minor key, both are exceedingly optimistic, devoid of any serious mood. Rather, it is appropriate to express joy.

Regarding dynamics, it is correct to play higher notes louder and lower notes softer, following the pitch. However, in measures such as m. 13 and m. 30 of the first piece, and m. 6 and m. 18 of the second piece, while the tension increases, do not interpret this as an overly strong emotional expression. Consider it merely a slight increase in tension within an optimistic mood.

Articulation, therefore, is flexible; however, considering the light gait characteristic of a minuet, the quarter notes between beats 2 and 3 in measures 2 and 3 of the first piece may be played staccato. Similarly, the quarter notes in the bass clef between measures 7 and 8 may also be played staccato.

Although the atmosphere of the second minuet changes slightly, it does not contrast sharply with the first piece; therefore, similarly, try playing the quarter notes staccato.

Writer: Ooi, Kazurou