Composer

:

Johann Sebastian Bach

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Fugue

Compose Date

:

before 1710

Publication Date

:

2000

Average_duration

:

3:02

Movement_count

:

2

Movement ....

Johann Sebastian Bach's Prelude and Fugue in A major, BWV 896 (BC L128) is a keyboard work that was composed during his time as the Kapellmeister in Cöthen, Germany, between 1717 and 1723. The piece is part of Bach's collection of keyboard works known as the "Clavier-Übung," which he began publishing in 1731. The Prelude and Fugue in A major is a two-movement work that showcases Bach's mastery of counterpoint and harmonic complexity. The Prelude is a lively and virtuosic piece that features rapid arpeggios and intricate figurations. It is written in a binary form, with two contrasting sections that are repeated. The first section is characterized by a series of ascending arpeggios that are played in a continuous stream of sixteenth notes. The second section is more lyrical and features a series of descending arpeggios that are played in a more legato style. The Fugue is a complex and highly structured piece that is based on a single subject that is introduced at the beginning of the piece and then developed throughout. The subject is a short, four-note motif that is repeated and varied in a variety of ways. The Fugue is written in a three-part form, with an exposition, development, and recapitulation. The exposition introduces the subject in each of the three voices, while the development section explores the various permutations of the subject. The recapitulation brings the piece to a close by restating the subject in its original form. One of the most striking characteristics of the Prelude and Fugue in A major is its use of harmony. Bach employs a wide range of harmonic devices, including chromaticism, modulation, and counterpoint, to create a rich and complex musical texture. The piece is also notable for its technical demands, particularly in the Prelude, which requires a high level of virtuosity and dexterity. The Prelude and Fugue in A major was first published as part of the second volume of Bach's "Clavier-Übung" in 1735. It has since become a staple of the keyboard repertoire and is widely regarded as one of Bach's most important works for the keyboard.

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