In summary, there is so much harmonic rhythm to think about here that mapping the chordal outline helps keep the composition from degenerating into non-stop, punctuated 16ths, at least in the opening section marked Allegro Moderato. A compelling melody is woven through the harmonic fabric and must always be fleshed out.
The Adagio interlude is a major contrast with its improvised, ad libitum quality. The broken chords in this middle section are again contoured in such a way that the listener keys into the resolutions.
As the Prelude continues, the composer transitions to a Presto tempo with a rush to Climax. Following a cascade of rapid fire 16th notes the music meanders in improvised fashion before it moves toward the final cadence at a slower, though still brisk tempo. I don’t think the last two lines should be rushed. To the contrary, the music tapers and virtually disappears in marked contrast to the very defined FORTE opening. And the modulation to a C MAJOR chord in the final measure is the Picardy Third that Bach and other Baroque composers were known for. (Where the gates of heaven open after the sad minor is transformed to the celebratory parallel MAJOR)
(Harmonic Outline and Rhythm)
Played on the Haddorff piano:
Bravo!!!
What a great start- Monday morning Bach- magic and memories.
How wonderful that you can pick the best piano for each piece.
Thanks so much for all you share.
John
Thanks, John.. Yes, It’s fun to shuffle pianos …
Best Regards, Shirley K
hello.
jst seen your site tonight and love it
I have a casio privia (i think thats what youve got)
And i am learning the Schubert impromptu op 90 no 2 ( just started) its a nice demo you give in “slow motion”, and makes me think that one should practise slowly more often that trying to run first then walk second (lol) My piano is a Casio privia 830 polished mahogony . i have an acoustic for playing my pieces (kawai RX-2), but use the casio at night or times were silence is required.
Tony
United Kingdom, england
Thanks for your thoughtful comments. Yes, I am a believer in slow practicing …and coincidental to your sharing about your digital piano, I was over at Guitar Center today, filming various models which I will feature in an imminent blog posting. I am familiar with your RX model and played some over at DC Pianos in Berkeley. Kawai puts a lot of effort into regulation, which greatly pleases me.
Hi, your video was so inspiring that I immediately took the ‘Well Tempered Klavier’ out from my bookshelf and started learning it. Many thanks for sharing with us this video!
Hi shirley,
Whilst talking electric pianos, and the fact you go to GC (guitar centrer) i would try the “KORG kronos” out as it has a TWO 4.7 Gigabyte pianos on it ( a German Grand and a Japanese grand) not sure which models they refer to but been “rumoured” its a Stienway B, and a Kawai.
Re: the piece above. I aslo “play” this one, but strugge a bit ( a lot?) on the presto section with my Little (pinky to you!:)) finger on my right hand.
Take care
Tony
Thanks for the heads up on the KORG Kronos.. will check if GC has it.
Yes, that Presto section is a challenge.. try using dotted/eighth -16th, long -short -long rhythm practicing. I do that for technically difficult passages. The rhythm has a built in delay, but you have to let arms, wrists, loose.