Prelude in D Minor

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The Sixteenth-Note Layer

In the next reduction, all of Bach’s sixteenth notes are retained, while the eighth notes are reduced to their basic outline. This allows us to practise the fastest-moving notes without yet having to coordinate them with the eighth-note layer. Play this reduction now at a comfortable tempo. Afterwards, we’ll make some observations about Bach’s use of motives, and offer some suggestions for practising. Observations Every measure of this prelude is filled by one of three motives, or short musical cells. Motive a (a neighbor-note figure plus an energetic rising arpeggio) begins the piece,...

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