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Passacaglia and Fugue in C minor BWV 582

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description Passacaglia and Fugue in C minor BWV 582 Overview

The Passacaglia and Fugue in C minor (BWV 582) is an organ composition by Johann Sebastian Bach. The passacaglia section is constructed over an eight-measure repeating ground bass in the pedal, which undergoes twenty continuous variations. This theme is then transformed into the subject of a fugue that closes the work. As a significant technical and architectural achievement, it is a standard component of the concert organist's repertoire.

help Passacaglia and Fugue in C minor BWV 582 FAQ

What instrument is Bach's Passacaglia and Fugue in C minor BWV 582 written for?

The Passacaglia and Fugue in C minor (BWV 582) is a solo organ composition by Johann Sebastian Bach. It is widely considered one of the most important masterpieces of the organ repertoire.

How is the Passacaglia in BWV 582 structured?

The passacaglia section is constructed over an eight-measure repeating ground bass played in the pedal. This bassline undergoes twenty continuous variations before transitioning into the fugue.

Where did Bach get the bassline for his Passacaglia in C minor?

Musicologists believe Bach likely borrowed the bassline from a trio sonata by André Raison, a French organist. He then utilized this theme to construct the monumental double fugue that concludes the work.

How many variations are in Bach's Passacaglia and Fugue in C minor?

There are exactly twenty continuous variations built over the eight-measure repeating ground bass. This structural theme is then mathematically transformed into the subject of the concluding fugue.

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