Music and Texts of GARY BACHLUND
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Prelude and Fugue on C - (2012)
for organ
The opening gestures include the raised fourth and flat sixth and seventh, yet not in a consistent modal manner. Rather they function as thematic elements with harmonic implications. The singing theme of the prelude occurs over the repeated pattern as at measure 18 and beyond, the bass line driving the harmonic implications "on C" first to an A7 chord and return to the tonic. Thereafter the work moves to the subdominant in like manner to the first sojourn on the sub-mediant "on C." The expected dominant acts as a pole star to reset tonalities.
The fugue expands the raised fourth which is stated at the beginning of the prelude to thematic status, now an integral part of the subject, such that the function of leading tone to the next statement is anticipated. As with the prelude's momentary visit to the subdominant, the fugue also reaches this additional tonal realm. Statements in augmentation are added by the pedal line, bringing the fugue to a close with a final reprise of the head motive in the right hand and a light-hearted last cadence.
7 pages, circa 7' 00" - an MP3 demo is here:
The score is available as a free PDF download, though any major commercial performance or recording of the work is prohibited without prior arrangement with the composer. Click on the graphic below for this organ score.
