Organ Fugue in G Minor by Bach Flashcards

Overview of Organ Fugue in G Minor

• Composed by Johann Sebastian Bach, a pivotal figure in Baroque music.
• Written during the Baroque era, known for its complex forms and expressive melodies.

Bach's Keyboard Work

• Bach created nearly 100 keyboard fugues, with approximately one-third specifically for organ.
• Fugues showcase intricate counterpoint and a blend of voices.

Structure and Voice

• This fugue is written for four voices: soprano, alto, tenor, and bass.
• The subject, the main thematic material, is first presented in the soprano voice.

Composition and Origins

• The piece originated in Germany, reflecting the musical traditions of the time.
• It follows a ternary (ABA) structure, also known as da capo form.

Key Terms in Fugues and Related Works

• A cadenza is a virtuosic passage typically appearing near the end of a movement.
• A cantata is a vocal genre that emerged in Italy in the 17th century.
• Chorale refers to a simple hymn melody for congregational singing in the Lutheran Church.
• A church cantata includes various vocal forms with orchestral accompaniment.
• An episode in a fugue is a section with free counterpoint, distinct from the subject.
• The exposition is the opening section of a fugue where the subject is introduced by each voice.

Musical Elements

• A pedal point is a sustained note in the bass while harmonies shift around it.
• A prelude serves as an introductory movement, setting the stage for subsequent pieces.
• The subject is the principal theme that drives the fugue's structure.

Technical Features

• The fourth statement of the subject in the exposition starts on the dominant rather than the tonic.
• The initial statement of the subject features notes from the tonic triad: G, B-flat, and D, in the order D then B-flat after G.
• The piece modulates, contributing to its dynamic character.

Performance Notes

• Exaggerated crescendo and ritardando at the conclusion do not enhance the sense of finality in the piece.
• Bach designed this four-voice fugue for a single performer on the organ, showcasing individual virtuosity.

Test your knowledge on Bach's Organ Fugue in G Minor with these flashcards. This quiz covers critical aspects of the composition, including its composer, style, and details about its structure. Perfect for music students and enthusiasts alike!