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Fugue in A-flat minor for organ WoO 8 (Brahms)

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description Fugue in A-flat minor for organ WoO 8 (Brahms) Overview

The Prelude and Fugue in A-flat minor for organ (WoO 8 and 9) are early compositions by Johannes Brahms, written around 1856 and 1857. Brahms composed these pieces during a period of intensive study of Baroque counterpoint, modeling his approach closely on the keyboard style of Johann Sebastian Bach. Unlike his later, more Romantic organ works, these pieces exhibit strict contrapuntal techniques. They reflect the young composer's deep academic engagement with historical musical forms before he fully developed his mature style.

help Fugue in A-flat minor for organ WoO 8 (Brahms) FAQ

When did Brahms compose the Fugue in A-flat minor, WoO 8?

Johannes Brahms composed the organ fugue in 1856, during his early study of Baroque counterpoint. IMSLP lists its first performance as April 16, 1873, in Leipzig. [IMSLP](https://imslp.org/wiki/Fugue_in_A-flat_minor%2C_WoO_8_%28Brahms%2C_Johannes%29)

What instrument is the A-flat minor WoO 8 written for?

It is written for solo organ, although it can also be studied on a pedal keyboard. The work is an early Brahms fugue rather than a piece by Johann Sebastian Bach. [IMSLP](https://imslp.org/wiki/Fugue_in_A-flat_minor%2C_WoO_8_%28Brahms%2C_Johannes%29)

Is WoO 8 the same work as Brahms's A minor Prelude and Fugue?

No. WoO 8 is the standalone Fugue in A-flat minor, while Brahms's Prelude and Fugue in A minor is catalogued separately as WoO 9. The two works belong to the same early organ-study period but are different compositions. [IMSLP](https://imslp.org/wiki/Fugue_in_A-flat_minor%2C_WoO_8_%28Brahms%2C_Johannes%29)

Why is Clara Schumann connected with this fugue?

An autograph manuscript of the A-flat minor fugue was dedicated and inscribed by Brahms to Clara Schumann. The manuscript is evidence of their close musical relationship during Brahms's 1856 counterpoint studies. [Sotheby's](https://www.sothebys.com/en/auctions/ecatalogue/2017/music-sale-l17402/lot.210.html)

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