Fugue

Definition

A fugue is a complex musical form that involves the systematic interweaving of multiple melodic lines, or voices, based on a single theme. This intricate style is characterized by its structure, where a principal theme is introduced by one voice and then imitated and developed by others, creating a rich tapestry of sound. The fugue showcases compositional skill and forms a foundational aspect of Western classical music, influencing later developments and trends.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Fugues often feature a subject, which is the main theme introduced at the beginning and subsequently developed through various techniques.
2. The form typically includes sections like exposition, development, and recapitulation, with the exposition being where all voices state the subject.
3. Fugues can be written for various instruments or voices and are a hallmark of Baroque music, especially associated with composers like J.S. Bach.
4. In addition to being technically demanding, fugues allow for expressive freedom, as composers can manipulate themes and counterpoints creatively.
5. Fugues have influenced many composers beyond the Baroque era, foreshadowing Romantic developments in harmonic complexity and thematic transformation.

Review Questions

• How does the structure of a fugue contribute to its complexity and richness in sound?
  • The structure of a fugue contributes to its complexity by introducing a main theme or subject that is imitated by multiple voices. Each voice enters at different times, creating layers of counterpoint that interact in intricate ways. This interplay not only showcases compositional skill but also enriches the overall sound, allowing for dynamic contrasts and harmonies that evolve throughout the piece.
• Discuss the role of the exposition in a fugue and how it sets the stage for subsequent development.
  • The exposition in a fugue plays a crucial role as it introduces the main theme through each voice in succession. This initial presentation establishes the thematic material that will be explored throughout the piece. Following the exposition, the development phase elaborates on this theme using techniques like imitation and variation, which creates depth and complexity as the composer manipulates the subject in innovative ways.
• Evaluate how fugues from the late period of classical music demonstrate innovations that foreshadow Romanticism.
  • Fugues from the late period of classical music reflect innovations that foreshadow Romanticism through their exploration of emotional expression and harmonic complexity. Composers began to experiment with more dramatic contrasts in dynamics and tempo within their fugues, moving away from strict formalism. This evolution towards greater expressiveness highlighted individual creativity while still respecting traditional forms, paving the way for later Romantic composers to further expand these ideas into more personal and emotive musical expressions.

Related terms

Counterpoint: A musical technique involving the combination of two or more independent melodies that harmonically interact with each other.

Exposition: The initial section of a fugue where the main theme is presented by each voice in succession.

Stretto: A technique in fugue where the subject is overlapped or stated in close succession, creating a sense of urgency and tension.