­

[pies]

­

[pies]

­

[viking]

Prelude and Fugue no. 4, Bk 1 is one of the more difficult fugues, requiring 5 voices.  The complete P&F in my book is 6 pages long but ive seen it written over 4.  Its not a fast one that requires good technique, but rather slow and sombre.  It teaches extreme finger independance and mental strength.  I think most people could start learning it even if it was above their current level (I have no clue what yours is).  Check it out.
SAM

[prometheus]

Yes, not only is No.4 C#m one of the most beautiful. It is also easy to play and hard to master.

To me the most impressive works by Bach are the Busoni transcriptions of some of the organ works. Demidenko plays them like post-romantic Busoni works. It's amazing. Bach's counterpoint and Busoni's pianism.

[pooguy77]

The entire Italian Concerto is a nice choice. Or also try one of his piano concerto's. The F-Minor is lovely. Dynamic 1st mvt, 2nd mvt is the most beautiful piece, and the 3rd requires some good finger work.

[thierry13]

Or, which of the Goldberg Variations would be good to start with? I'd say I'm at an intermediate level now (but still lacking a teacher! I've said to myself (and on these forums) that I'd quit because of no one to guide me, yet I keep coming back).

What are you talking about mid-level ... you're hamelin  and you have the best technique in the world!  

[pseudopianist]

Isn't the C# minor fugue way too complicated for an intermediet? That fugue is so amazing, I've cried a lot of times do to it's saddnes. I hope to play that fugue one day.

[rafant]

French Suites fulfill your requirements. Being suites of near 5 short dances, they have variety of tempi, mood, articulation, embellishments. I suggest No. 3, No. 4 and specially No. 5.

[pies]

­

[sharon_f]

French Suites fulfill your requirements. Being suites of near 5 short dances, they have variety of tempi, mood, articulation, embellishments. I suggest No. 3, No. 4 and specially No. 5.

I agree with Rafant and would also add No. 6.

[pseudopianist]

I agree with Rafant and would also add No. 6.

And I would take the 6 from your post and the 5 from his and create the ultimate post

Learn 5 (The allemande and the gigue!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!) and 6

[rafant]

Yes, French Suite No. 6 is good, specially for the wonderful Sarabande. This Sarabande was praised by prof. Karl Leimer as the only exercise enough to dominate trills.

[rapmasterb]

The 25th Goldberg variation is a great piece and is not too long. Playing it with genuine feeling and really getting it right would give you good insight into Bach. The finale of the partita in b-flat is nice aswell. As you probably know, any of the fugues from the wtc1 or 2  are great for technique. Though to be honest, Id find it difficult to find a bach piece that isnt a good technique one (except the 1st prelude from wtc1 *sigh*).

Let's face it, it's all good.

[burstroman]

The Toccatas are about the length you want.  They aren't played as much as they deserved to be.

[pita bread]

Toccata in c minor