This Prelude for organ in G major was likely written
during the composer's Arnstadt years (1703-1707) and is
thus an early work. Bach served as organist at the
Arnstadt Neue Kirche during this period and wrote a
substantial amount of organ music in that approximately
four-year span. This Prelude, while not one of the
composer's more imposing efforts, is nevertheless a
worthwhile creation, not least because it exhibits
Bach's deft sense for keyboard color and festive moods.
Some may charge that t...(+)
This Prelude for organ in G major was likely written
during the composer's Arnstadt years (1703-1707) and is
thus an early work. Bach served as organist at the
Arnstadt Neue Kirche during this period and wrote a
substantial amount of organ music in that approximately
four-year span. This Prelude, while not one of the
composer's more imposing efforts, is nevertheless a
worthwhile creation, not least because it exhibits
Bach's deft sense for keyboard color and festive moods.
Some may charge that the work borders on the bombastic
at times, exhibiting less of the composer's
contrapuntal skills than is usual in his keyboards
works. While there may be some truth in these
observations, this Prelude is convincing on its own
colorful terms, brimming with regal festivity and
brilliant keyboard writing. The glorious main theme is
split between statements in big chords and scale-like
runs down the keyboard, but the two elements are often
imaginatively presented in combination. If some hear
the work as a succession of fanfares, they overlook
Bach's subtle transformation of the thematic material
and his deft sense for atmosphere and color.
Although originally composed for Organ, I created this
modern interpretation of the Prelude in G Major (BWV
568) for Wind Quintet (Flute, Oboe, Bb Clarinet, French
Horn & Bassoon).
SHEET MUSIC