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Bach, Johann Sebastian : Concerto Allegro - Adagio

Work Overview

Music ID : 54299
Instrumentation:Piano Solo 
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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Note: This article is automatically translated from the original Japanese text. The author of the original work did not supervise this translation.

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.

Writer: Ooi, Kazurou
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