Composer

:

Johann Sebastian Bach

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Fugue

Compose Date

:

before 1800

Publication Date

:

1843

Average_duration

:

3:37

Johann Sebastian Bach's Fugue for keyboard in A minor, BWV 947, was composed in the early 18th century. The exact date of composition is unknown, but it is believed to have been written during Bach's time as court organist in Weimar, Germany. The piece was likely composed for keyboard instruments such as the harpsichord or clavichord. The Fugue for keyboard in A minor, BWV 947, is a single-movement work that is characterized by its intricate counterpoint and complex harmonic structure. The piece is written in the key of A minor, which gives it a melancholic and introspective quality. The fugue is structured around a single theme that is introduced at the beginning of the piece and then developed throughout. The piece is divided into three main sections: the exposition, the development, and the recapitulation. In the exposition, the theme is introduced in the first voice and then imitated by the second voice. This process is repeated with the third and fourth voices, creating a four-voice fugue. The exposition ends with a cadence in the dominant key of E minor. The development section of the fugue is where Bach explores the possibilities of the theme. He uses various techniques such as inversion, augmentation, and diminution to create new melodies and harmonies. The development section is the most complex and challenging part of the piece, both for the performer and the listener. The recapitulation section of the fugue brings back the original theme in its original form. This section is similar to the exposition, but with some variations and modifications. The piece ends with a final cadence in the home key of A minor. Overall, the Fugue for keyboard in A minor, BWV 947, is a masterful example of Bach's contrapuntal writing. The piece is challenging to perform and requires a high level of technical skill and musical understanding. It is a testament to Bach's genius as a composer and his ability to create complex and beautiful music that still resonates with audiences today.

More....