Bach's Menuet in E major: Some Implications for Performance

The foregoing musical analysis carries many implications for the performance of the Menuet. For instance, our identification of the work's primary tonal goals, cadences, theme, motives, and unique features clarifies just what needs to be brought out in order to make the music intelligible. Similarly, an understanding of the composition's form and tonal structure enables the performer to communicate a convincing impression of unity and flow. Of course, an analysis like this one is just the first step in developing a successful interpretation, and a performer will continue to discover new implications as long as the piece is played!

One more intriguing aspect of the Menuet is worthy of attention here. As mentioned earlier, the Menuet is characterized by the emphasis on implication, and there is yet another sort which is evident. While the dance's contrapuntal texture consists primarily of two (and occasionally three) literal voices, the treble part actually seems to be composed of two melodic strands:

Bach Menuet: 
Aspects of Performance

As this suggests, the upper voice of the Menuet appears to imply a continuous sequence of mostly thirds and sixths. Awareness of this inherent feature of the right-hand part can aid the performer in making many interpretative decisions, especially in the areas of phrasing and articulation.


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(c) Dr. James William Sobaskie

University of Wisconsin, Marathon Center
March 8, 1996.