Bach, Johann Sebastian : Concerto Allegro - Adagio
Work Overview
Genre:Reduction/Arrangement
Total Playing Time:3 min 30 sec
Copyright:Public Domain
Commentary (1)
Author : Ooi, Kazurou
Last Updated: October 6, 2023
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Author : Ooi, Kazurou
The Allegro section of this movement is written in cut time (2/2). While 2/2 time in this era typically implies a very fast tempo, there are parts where it becomes quite difficult to perform this piece without feeling it in 4/4 time rather than 2/2. This is particularly true for the rapid repeated notes starting from measure 39, which are extremely difficult for a single performer on one keyboard instrument.
Furthermore, 32nd notes, such as those in measure 6, appear; if the tempo is too fast, these fine notes become difficult to articulate clearly. Therefore, the author believes it might be acceptable to play it at a standard Allegro tempo, effectively counting in 4/4 rather than 2/2.
Next, regarding the Adagio section, the score the author possesses indicates (Grave) rather than Adagio. The parentheses suggest it means "as slow as Grave." This is a correct indication, as there are passages where difficulties arise if the tempo is too fast (e.g., quarter note = 40). In the Adagio section, measure 3, between beats 3 and 4, there is an A-C-E chord on beat 3, but the A-sharp appearing on beat 4 feels quite unnatural. Therefore, it is suggested to make a break at the C, which is the downbeat of beat 4, from beat 3. The notes from the upbeat of B onwards are considered to lead to F-sharp-A-sharp-C-sharp in measure 4. This would necessitate a significant reduction in tempo.
Consequently, if the tempo is significantly reduced, it might be acceptable to arpeggiate or add improvisational passages for measures 1-2. Conversely, if one believes that too slow a tempo would lose momentum, one should proceed at a moderate speed, stop the music once at the C on beat 4 of measure 3, and then restart from the upbeat of beat 4 to avoid a clash of sounds, or choose one of these approaches.