Prelude and Fugue in C Major, BWV 545

The "Prelude and Fugue in C Major, BWV 545" is most likely an early work by Bach which has undergone a lot of revisions. It is believed that Bach wrote the piece as a young organist, maybe as early as his Arnstadt or Mühlhausen days (1703-1706).

The piece starts off with great self-assurance. With hops, steps and jumps, the pedal goes to a throbbing low C three times, while the right hand builds up a full chord straight away. And what follows is also decisive. The equally self-assured fugue is constructed firmly on the key of C major, which is never really called into question.

It seemed like a good choice for Easter, with the rising subject of the fugue.

This is a fine and famous organ, admired by many. However, the shortcoming of the Kampen organ is the lack of independence and clarity of the Pedal division. There are no mixtures, and the pedal can sound "muddy," especially with the massive acoustic.

I'm afraid that this is the case in this performance. The pedal part really isn't clear or strong enough at times. I coupled the Hoofdwerk to the Pedaal for the final entrance of the fugal subject only. Before this the couplers for the Rugwerk and Bovenwerk are used, but they don't add as much clarity as needed.

Anyway, here it is. :-)

The score is attached below as well as a portrait of the mature Johann Sebastian.

I wish all my listeners health, happiness, peace, and all the blessings of the Easter season.