Prelude and Fugue in F Major (BWV 556)

from Eight Short Preludes and Fugues attributed to Johann Sebastian Bach

Background

The F Major Prelude is written in ternary, or ABA form. The A comprises mm. 1-14. The B section, mm. 15-44, introduces new motives and harmonies. The A section returns, in an exact repetition, in mm. 45-58.

Organ and Registration

Though it is not required or indicated in the score, the Prelude offers places to change registrations or manuals. Consider placing the passage from m. 19 to m. 34 (or alternatively to mm. 44) on a softer, echo-like registration.

Fingering and Pedaling

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Articulation and Phrasing

The slurs written over the triplets in m. 5 and 6, right hand, are from Bach's original score. Even though the slurs are not written over all of the triplet figures, slurs can be assumed. They most likely indicate that the triplet notes form one figure or gesture. One way to maintain the continuity of these figures is to connect the three notes in the triplet and then articulate slightly between the figures. This will maintain the sense of downbeat and give a nuanced texture to the line. Small articulations like these can also help to keep the tempo consistent and clear.

Ornamentation

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Tempo and Meter

The F Major Prelude uses sixteenth-note triplet figures in both hands. Practice slowly to ensure that the triplets are even, and that the tempo stays consistent (does not speed up or slow down) when the triplets begin or end. When you set your beginning tempo for the piece, think through the tempo you want to play the triplets, then begin the piece at that tempo.

Scores and Editions

http://imslp.org/wiki/8_Kleine_Pr%C3%A4ludien_und_Fugen,_BWV_553-560_(Bach,_Johann_Sebastian)

Recordings

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Free Online

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Pay to Listen

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Other Resources

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Notes

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