146: Toccata’s Twin! Double Fugue in F

Forever paired with the giant Toccata BWV 540, it’s unlikely the two were conceived together. Still, owing to certain sources and the fact that this fugue is a dignified and stately complement to the capricious toccata, the pairing works delightfully. Now, is this the fugue, BWV 540? Or which piece is this?And is this not the same music?Top: Italian Concerto. Bottom: today’s fugue. Seeing such similar vocabulary is as thrilling as it is remarkably rare in Bach’s works.Wow. That Fugue!Here are the fugue’s two contrasting themes. The first, slow moving, noble:The second, carefree and playful:They combine toward the end of the piece to marvelous effect:A complete version of the MIDI synths in the episode (Headphones are best! I found it quite relaxing.)I said I would attach the MIDI files, but Substack won’t allow it. If you leave a comment or send me a DM, I’ll send them over. Thanks!Spread the Counterpoint. Share WTF Bach.We Rely Exclusively on Paid Subscriptions! Help WTF Bach endure:Join at WTFBach.comThis is the only place Evan checks comments regularly.You can also make a one-time donation here:https://www.paypal.me/wtfbachhttps://venmo.com/wtfbachThank you for your help! Get full access to W.T.F. Bach? at wtfbach.substack.com/subscribe