Prelude and Fugue for Strings

PERFORMANCE NOTES*****Prelude and Fugue for Strings presents the familiar Aura Lee melody in a manner humbly intended to emulate the preludes and fugues of the great J. S. Bach. While there are no direct quotes from Bach, lovers of his music will notice that the Prelude contains references to Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring and Prelude XIII from The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book I. It is no coincidence that Bach's companion Fugue XIII also begins with the first four notes of the Aura Lee tune. While this work is intended for moderately advanced string players, certain passages are written in octaves in order to give an option in passages which lie in difficult registers. Before students attempt to learn this work, it would be helpful if they listened to the above mentioned Bach works to gain a feel for the terms grazioso and con leggerezza. While students may know that the terms mean gracefully and with lightness, a true understanding of their meanings can be achieved only through a combination of listening and rehearsal. Generally, an evenness of tempo and dynamic level throughout are in keeping with the style of Bach. The Prelude should be played in this manner, as should the Fugue up to letter F, where the style becomes more flexible. The three-voice fugue should be played with careful attention to balance. Do not emphasize the main theme (subject) when it appears, but rather strive for a blend that enhances each of the three lines of counterpoint. The familiarity of the subject will be enough to bring it out. At letter H, students should understand that the term fermato requires a steady, resolute pulse, but at a slower tempo. Do not allow a ritard other than where indicated. Also at letter H, the subject is taken by the cellos and basses in augmentation. Give these notes the subtlest bit of weight, but nothing more. The first violins predominate at this point. Prelude and Fugue for Strings, will appeal to audiences of all types. Listeners familiar with classical music will appreciate the stylistic treatment of Aura Lee, while those who do not frequent the concert hall will be attracted by the use of a familiar tune known as Love Me Tender. Thank you for selecting this composition. I trust you and your students will find it instructive and enjoyable. Sincerely, Joseph Compello