The prelude is believed to be the more mature of the two movements[1] due to structural similarities between this movement and the Leipzig organ preludes of
BWV 548 and
BWV 544, all of which showcase a massive, intricate
ritornello construction.[2] Much of the opening theme for this work was subtly arranged and transposed in G minor for the lighter opening chorus of the
cantataWer sich selbst erhöhet, der soll erniedriget werden, BWV 47,[6][7] which was performed on 13 October 1726 in Leipzig. After the stately initial dialogue, the piece is soon flanked with a flurry of running triplets, intertwined with a looming second theme, with the original one reoccurring only in fragments until its final statement.[8]
Fugue
The
alla breve fugue is believed to have been written during Bach's time in Weimar, and was added to the prelude during his time in Leipzig. Some believe the movement may have been partially or fully composed by Kellner.[9][2]
Jones, Richard D.P. (2013), The Creative Development of Johann Sebastian Bach, Volume II: 1717–1750: Music to Delight the Spirit. Oxford University Press,
ISBN978-0-19-969628-4