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Week 6: Fugue Development

After the subject has been stated and answered in all voices, the fugue undergoes further development. This development may involve fragmentation of the subject, sequence, modulation, stretto, and textural variation. The subject may be decapitated, so to speak, with the head or tail forming the basis for sequential episodes such as in the following example.

zzz graphic here.

In a sense, fugal developments serve as the model for all developments to follow. Many of the techniques we see in a fugue's development are also employed in the development, say, of a Brahms or Beethoven sonata. In terms of sheer size, development sections become increasingly important, and it is here that composers really show their skill.

Take a moment to study the detail to the right. What do you see in this fragment that we have not seen before? Yes, Monet has signed his work. As part of your listening this week, you will hear Bach sign his work.

Reading:

1. How to Analyze a Fugue

1. Introduction to the Art of Fugue
2. Four Simple Fugues of the AOF
3. Three Stretto Fugues of the AOF
4. Four Double/Triple Fugues of the AOF (these fugues are not yet analyzed, but you should listen to them.
5. Four Mirror Fugues of the AOF (Wow! what a guy!)
6. Follow the timeline of the concluding Fugue with Three Subjects of the AOF.

1. Assignment No. 6
2. Assignment No. 7