J.S. Bach - Fantasia et Fuga in g BWV 542

Johann Sebastian Bach 1685-1750
Fantasia et Fuga in g BWV 542
0:00 Fantasia
5:23 Fuga

The Fantasia and Fugue in G Minor, BWV 542, is one of Johann Sebastian Bach's most celebrated and frequently performed organ works. While the exact date of composition is uncertain, scholars generally believe it originated around 1720 or slightly later during Bach’s tenure in Köthen or early years in Leipzig. This powerful piece showcases Bach's profound understanding of the organ's capabilities and his mastery of counterpoint and dramatic musical expression.

The Fantasia is a free-flowing and virtuosic introduction. Its opening is instantly recognizable: a dramatic, descending scale passage that establishes the G minor key and a sense of foreboding. The Fantasia then evolves through a series of contrasting sections, exploring a range of textures, harmonies, and tempos. Bach skillfully utilizes the full sonic palette of the organ, from delicate solo passages to powerful, full-organ statements. There is an improvisatory feel to this section, allowing for freedom and exploration of musical ideas.

The Fugue is a masterful example of Bach's contrapuntal skill. The subject is energetic and memorable. BThe Fugue gradually builds in intensity, culminating in a powerful and triumphant climax that reaffirms the G minor key and brings the work to a satisfying conclusion.

The Fantasia and Fugue in G Minor is not only a technical tour-de-force but also a deeply moving and expressive piece of music. The Fantasia and Fugue in G minor BWV 542, stands as a pinnacle of the organ repertoire.

Fantasia
HW: Principal 16' + Principal 8' + Octave 4' + Superoctave 2' + Quinte 2 2/3' + Mixtur major + Mixtur minor
RP: Prestant 8'+ Octave 4' +Doublette 2' + Nasard 2 2/3'
Ped: Principalbass 16' + Subbass 16' + Octavbass 8 '+ Fagott 16' + Rauschpfeife + Trompete

HW: Principal 8' + Rohrflöte 8' + Octave 4' + Superoctave 2' + Quinte 2 2/3'
Ped: Principalbass 16' + Subbass 16' + Octavbass 8 + Violabass 8'

Fuga:
HW: Principal 8' + Octave 4' Superoctave 2' + Quinte 2 2/3' + Mixtur major
RP: Prestant 8'+ Octave 4' +Doublette 2' + Nasard 2 2/3' + Scharf
Ped: Principalbass 16' + Subbass 16' + Octavbass 8 '+ Fagott 16' + Chorlabass 4' + (Trompete 8')


Sample Set Metzler Organ Poblet by Organ Art Media
https://www.organartmedia.com/en/2012...

Markus Stein, Organ
Console by Noorlander Orgelbau
Hauptwerk Software,
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