Composer

:

Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Keyboard

Compose Date

:

1756

Publication Date

:

1761

Average_duration

:

3:27

La complaisante, H. 109, Wq. 117/28 is a solo keyboard work composed by Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach in 1765. It is a set of variations on a theme, and is one of Bach's most popular keyboard works. The piece was composed during Bach's time as harpsichordist to the court of King Frederick the Great of Prussia. It was likely composed for the king's sister, Princess Anna Amalia, who was also a talented keyboard player. The piece is comprised of a theme and six variations. The theme is a simple, elegant melody in the key of G major. The first variation is a lively, virtuosic rendition of the theme, featuring rapid runs and arpeggios. The second variation is a slower, more contemplative version of the theme, with a more complex harmonic structure. The third variation is a playful, dance-like variation, featuring syncopated rhythms and unexpected harmonic shifts. The fourth variation is a dramatic, minor-key variation, with a more intense and emotional character. The fifth variation is a light, delicate variation, featuring intricate ornamentation and a more ornate melodic line. The final variation is a triumphant, grandiose version of the theme, featuring powerful chords and a sense of resolution. The piece is characteristic of Bach's style, with its emphasis on virtuosity, expressiveness, and harmonic complexity. It is also notable for its use of unexpected harmonic shifts and rhythmic syncopation, which were innovative for the time. La complaisante was first published in 1766, and quickly became one of Bach's most popular keyboard works. It has since been performed and recorded by numerous pianists and harpsichordists, and remains a beloved piece in the classical keyboard repertoire.

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