Bach's Fugue and Baroque Organ Techniques

Bach and Stokowski's Fugue

• Bach's original Fugue in G-Minor was composed for the organ, showcasing its capabilities.
• Stokowski adapted the original work for multiple instruments, adding a unique orchestral texture.

Baroque Organ Mechanics

• The Baroque organ produces sound through pipes, activated by the manual or keyboard.
• Airflow for the organ was traditionally generated by a young boy operating large bellows.

Fugues Explained

• The main theme in a fugue is referred to as the "Subject."
• Fugues are characterized by the introduction of new melodic phrases, creating a complex interweaving of themes.
• Common misconceptions include the belief that fugues are solely a series of different melodies played in succession.

Organ's Prestige

• The organ is often called the "King of Instruments" due to its vast size, power, and ability to produce diverse timbres.

Subject Momentum in Bach’s Fugue

• The forward momentum of the subject in Bach's Fugue in G-Minor is achieved as the note values progressively shorten, creating an energetic drive.

Bach's Reception

• Contrary to belief, Johann Sebastian Bach's music has been widely appreciated posthumously, even though it was not well recognized during his lifetime.

Analyzing Excerpt Themes

• This excerpt contains two distinct entries of the main subject within the musical theme.
• The rhythmic progression is characterized by a slow start that gradually accelerates.

Fugal Structure

• The section that presents the main theme with variations using different voices is known as the "Exposition."
• The musical excerpt begins with one section followed by another, identified as an "episode" leading into a "middle entry."