Bach WTC book 2 - Prelude and Fugue in F minor

[kyliec]

Hi
Another exam piece I'm preparing for my grade 8 AMEB exams in November - please give me constructive criticism 
thanks, Kylie

[pianistimo]

the question and answer (at the beginning) sounds a little 'staid.'  I'd ask the question sincerely - and then give an answer that makes itself known by dynamic considerations.  I like how you do those staccato notes.  I'd make more contrast (possibly by speeding up) in the areas that you are doing more 'explaination.'  The working out of the prelude - as though it is travelling somewhere purposely.  like people when they are walking somewhere in nyc.  in fact, follow someone with your mind.  Then, when you get back to the end - you have reached the destination.  MUCH MORE AT THE END.

ps i haven't played this particular prelude - so just take it for what it's worth.

[pianistimo]

oftentimes (and this is regarding the fugue) students think that a fugue has to have a constant rate.  actually, what is happening is the entrance and departure of voices.  when the voices were fuller - bach actually intended that to dramatize the dynamics and also increase speed.  So... (i'm not a bach expert - just my opinion) one or two voices just as you are - more voices = more volume/speed.  the opposite of what most students are able to handle as more voices complicate the 'thing.'  Also, if you have some control over a slight mistiming of exact lining up of the vertical line of vocal entrances - you can time them to slightly come in before the other voices as though they are anticipating entrance as a soloist.  This is harder to pull off without sounding kinda mismatched.  but, it's effective as you don't want singers to be so 'in sync' that they have no creative mind of their own.