Bach, Johann Sebastian : Allemande und Courante Allmande
Work Overview
Genre:allemande
Copyright:Public Domain
Commentary (1)
Author : Ooi, Kazurou
Last Updated: April 1, 2024
[Open]
Author : Ooi, Kazurou
The Allemande was originally a calm, duple-meter dance at a moderate tempo, but around the 17th century, it became stylized and established itself as a slow-tempo piece in 4/4 meter, typically played at the beginning of a suite.
Although the notation of this piece might suggest a fast tempo, the Allemande is generally recognized as a piece with a relatively slow tempo. Therefore, the author personally feels that in the case of this Allemande, it is preferable to use ample legato and play the voices smoothly, like string instruments.
Consequently, the eighth notes in the left hand (e.g., in measure 2) and similar passages should not be played staccato, but rather with smooth legato.
In the latter half, the piece modulates to a minor key mid-way, but the overall character of the piece should be considered calm and unpressured, similar to the A-major Prelude from Book 2 of the Well-Tempered Clavier. For the tempo, please choose one that does not feel rushed.