Composer

:

Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Keyboard

Compose Date

:

1767

Publication Date

:

1767

Average_duration

:

1:40

Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach's 'Alla polacca, for keyboard in E flat major, H. 233, Wq. 114/6' is a solo keyboard piece that was composed in the mid-18th century. The exact date of composition is not known, but it is believed to have been written between 1755 and 1760. The piece was first published in 1760 as part of Bach's 'Six Keyboard Sonatas, Wq. 63'. The 'Alla polacca' is a single-movement work that is written in the key of E flat major. It is a polonaise, a dance form that originated in Poland and became popular in the courts of Europe in the 18th century. The polonaise is characterized by its stately, march-like rhythm and its emphasis on the first beat of each measure. The 'Alla polacca' begins with a lively and energetic theme that is introduced by the right hand. The left hand provides a steady accompaniment in the form of broken chords. The theme is then repeated with some variations, and the left hand takes over the melody while the right hand provides the accompaniment. The middle section of the piece is more subdued and features a new melody that is introduced by the left hand. The right hand provides a simple accompaniment in the form of chords. The two hands then switch roles, with the right hand taking over the melody and the left hand providing the accompaniment. The final section of the piece returns to the original theme, which is now played with even more energy and enthusiasm. The left hand provides a more complex accompaniment, with arpeggios and runs that add to the excitement of the piece. The 'Alla polacca' ends with a flourish, with both hands playing together in a final burst of energy. Overall, the 'Alla polacca' is a lively and engaging piece that showcases Bach's skill as a composer and his ability to write music that is both technically challenging and musically satisfying. Its use of the polonaise form and its emphasis on rhythm and melody make it a classic example of the music of the mid-18th century.

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