Composer

:

Wilhelm Friedemann Bach

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Fantasy

Compose Date

:

ca. 1770 - 1775

Publication Date

:

1972

Average_duration

:

4:01

Wilhelm Friedemann Bach, the eldest son of Johann Sebastian Bach, composed the 'Fantasia for keyboard in A minor, F. 23 (BR A26)' in the mid-18th century. The exact date of composition is unknown, but it is believed to have been written between 1745 and 1750. The piece was premiered by the composer himself, who was a renowned keyboard virtuoso, and it quickly became one of his most popular works. The 'Fantasia for keyboard in A minor' is a single-movement piece that is characterized by its improvisatory style and virtuosic keyboard writing. The piece is written in A minor and is structured around a series of contrasting sections that are connected by transitional passages. The opening section is marked by a slow, mournful melody that is played in the left hand while the right hand provides a simple accompaniment. This section is followed by a faster, more energetic section that features rapid arpeggios and virtuosic runs in both hands. The middle section of the piece is marked by a change in key to C major and a shift in mood to a more playful and lighthearted character. This section features a lively melody that is played in the right hand while the left hand provides a bouncy accompaniment. The section ends with a brief return to the opening material before transitioning back to the A minor key. The final section of the piece is marked by a return to the virtuosic keyboard writing of the opening section. This section features rapid runs and arpeggios in both hands, as well as a series of dramatic pauses and sudden shifts in dynamics. The piece ends with a flourish of virtuosic keyboard writing that brings the piece to a thrilling conclusion. Overall, the 'Fantasia for keyboard in A minor' is a masterful example of keyboard writing from the mid-18th century. It showcases Wilhelm Friedemann Bach's virtuosic keyboard skills and his ability to create a piece that is both improvisatory and tightly structured. The piece remains a popular work in the keyboard repertoire and is frequently performed and recorded today.

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