Composer

:

Hanns Eisler

Genre

:

Chamber

Style

:

Prelude & Fugue

Compose Date

:

1934

Average_duration

:

4:47

Hanns Eisler's Prelude and Fugue on the name of B-A-C-H, Op. 46 is a composition for solo piano that was completed in 1949. The piece was premiered on October 22, 1950, in East Berlin by pianist Günter Philipp. The composition consists of two movements, a prelude, and a fugue, and is based on the musical motif B-A-C-H, which is a reference to the German composer Johann Sebastian Bach. The prelude is marked "Andante con moto" and begins with a series of arpeggios that gradually build in intensity. The main theme is introduced in the left hand and is characterized by a descending chromatic line. The theme is then repeated in the right hand, accompanied by a series of chords in the left hand. The prelude continues to build in intensity, with the theme being developed and expanded upon, before coming to a dramatic conclusion. The fugue is marked "Allegro moderato" and begins with a statement of the B-A-C-H motif in the left hand. The theme is then taken up by the right hand and is developed through a series of imitative entries. The fugue is characterized by its contrapuntal texture, with the different voices weaving in and out of each other. The theme is developed and expanded upon throughout the fugue, with Eisler using a variety of techniques such as inversion, augmentation, and diminution. The fugue reaches a climax before coming to a quiet and reflective conclusion. Eisler's Prelude and Fugue on the name of B-A-C-H, Op. 46 is a complex and challenging work that showcases the composer's mastery of counterpoint and his ability to create a sense of drama and tension through his use of musical motifs. The piece is also a tribute to the legacy of Johann Sebastian Bach, whose music had a profound influence on Eisler's own compositional style.

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