Composer

:

Johann Sebastian Bach

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Chorale Prelude

Compose Date

:

before 1708

Publication Date

:

1893

Average_duration

:

3:26

Johann Sebastian Bach's 'Wo soll ich fliehen hin (II), BWV 694' is a chorale prelude for organ. It was composed in the early 18th century, during Bach's tenure as the court organist in Weimar. The piece is based on the hymn tune "Wo soll ich fliehen hin" by Johann Heermann. The premiere of 'Wo soll ich fliehen hin (II), BWV 694' is unknown, but it was likely performed in a church service or as part of a recital by Bach himself. The piece is divided into four movements, each of which explores a different aspect of the hymn tune. The first movement is a simple statement of the hymn tune in the pedal, accompanied by a flowing, arpeggiated figure in the right hand. The second movement is a more complex variation on the hymn tune, with the melody appearing in the upper voice and the accompaniment in the lower voices. The third movement is a fugue based on the hymn tune, with the melody appearing in the soprano voice and the other voices entering in imitation. The fugue is characterized by its lively, energetic rhythm and its intricate counterpoint. The final movement is a quiet, contemplative setting of the hymn tune, with the melody appearing in the upper voice and the accompaniment in the lower voices. The piece ends with a gentle, peaceful cadence. Overall, 'Wo soll ich fliehen hin (II), BWV 694' is a beautiful and complex work that showcases Bach's mastery of counterpoint and his ability to create rich, expressive textures on the organ. It is a testament to his skill as a composer and his deep understanding of the musical traditions of his time.

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