Music Lesson on Fugue and Intermediate Techniques

Key Points to Remember

1. Separation of Voices

   • The fugue is strict and mathematical.
   • The main theme has to be heard clearly while the supporting voices should be softer.
   • Practice separating movements; apply less pressure on supporting sounds.

2. Listening and Experimenting

   • Aim to hear two or three voices simultaneously.
   • If supporting voices are too loud, the main theme may become lost.

Understanding Fugue

• Boss of the Fugue: In fugue, you are in control.
• The structure of the fugue needs to be maintained; excessive crescendos from all notes can detract from the music's dance-like quality.
• Focus on accentuating every second or third note with crescendos, ensuring it doesn't disrupt the tempo.

Performance Strategy

• Maintain one tempo throughout the fugue; avoid creating a sense of nervousness about when it will end.
• Utilize calmness and serenity, culminating in an explosive cadenza at the end.
• Ensure the music feels like it's coming from within. The audience should wonder about the sound's origin, believing it's a recording when it's actually you.

Practical Exercise

• Articulation and Volume Control:

  • Take the first note with a certain volume, the second note with a different one, and the third note distinctly.
  • Imagine it as if one person is controlling the volume on a TV; adjust the articulation carefully.

• Focus on Variations:

  • Choose exact articulation and separation; avoid exaggeration.
  • Maintain precise length and calculated dynamics.

Intermediate Techniques

1. Harmonic Awareness:

   • Don't play all the notes without thinking; focus on the harmonic structure.
   • Identify if certain harmonies seem foreign and understand their significance.

2. Interpretation and Importance:

   • Decide what should be emphasized within the intermediate piece.
   • Your interpretation may shift based on how you approach the fugue.

Conclusion

• Balancing Importance:

  • Avoid making all notes sound equally important; this can dilute the essence of the fugue.
  • Communicate effectively with the audience by signaling what is less important.

• Rhythmic Consistency:

  • Be aware of when to take time and when to move forward.
  • Have a strategy for your performance, emphasizing relative importance.

Thank you very much!