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Bach, Johann Sebastian : 6 Partiten Nr.6 Toccata

Work Overview

Music ID : 39184
Instrumentation:Piano Solo 
Genre:suite
Total Playing Time:8 min 40 sec
Copyright:Public Domain

Commentary (1)

Author : Ooi, Kazurou

Last Updated: January 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.

While acknowledging potential disagreements, I would like to offer my personal opinion regarding the Toccata from Partita No. 6. First, one should consider the meaning of "Toccata" itself, and then reflect on the fact that it is written in 2/2 time. One must feel and play in two beats. Furthermore, true to the word "Toccata," the performance must showcase virtuosic elements, and therefore, the tempo should be considered quite fast.

Broadly speaking, there are two main types of material: one is the improvisatory arpeggio section at the beginning, and the other is the section where sixteen sixteenth notes are arranged within a single measure. From the opening measure, there is no particular need to be bound by strict timing; rather, it should be played improvisationally. For instance, from measure 3 through the end of measure 4, it is a section where one can apply an accelerando, further increasing the speed. Then, when the original material returns in measure 5, one should revert to the opening tempo.

The second type of material begins from measure 27, and the tempo from this point is crucial. Feeling the two beats, a virtuosic and fast performance is desired. The emotional expression in this section is characterized by a continuous series of suspensions (tied notes), creating a certain pressure and agitation. The suspensions begin in measure 27, on beat 1, with the notes ascending on beat 3, and further ascending on beat 1 of measure 28.

Considering the emotional aspect, this is by no means a calm section. If one were to remove these suspensions, the notes would be E D# F# E G F#, a typical ascending figure. However, with the addition of suspensions, becoming E E D# F# F# E G G F#, it becomes clear that a special emotion is being expressed.

Please refer to the Prelude in F minor from Book II of The Well-Tempered Clavier. This prelude is also written in 2/2 time. Rather than being played slowly, it expresses urgency and anxiety.

For this Toccata as well, try to shift your mindset and proceed at the fastest possible tempo, without being influenced by many existing performances. The atmosphere will change dramatically.

Writer: Ooi, Kazurou