PlayPiano
The short answer
Polonaise, French Suite No. 6, BWV 817 is a polonaise by Johann Sebastian Bach from the Baroque era. PlayPiano puts it at Level 5, an estimate.
- polonaise
- Baroque
- Key of E major
- dancing
- joyful
- broken chords
- hand independence
Also known as French Suite No. 6 in E major, BWV 817; J. S. Bach.
History
A quick rise to B leads into longer A and G-sharp notes. The lower line keeps its eighth-note motion, returning to E between changing notes. Let the difference in pace make the phrase dance.
Sources
What to listen for
A rise that settles
The opening G-sharp and A lead into B before the line lengthens. Hear where the quick gesture comes to rest.
A returning support tone
The lower line repeatedly comes back to E as other notes change. Listen for the steady centre beneath the melody.
How to practise it
- Keep the spread chord-tone pattern even while shaping its longer phrase.
- Practise the independent lines separately, then combine their different rhythmic roles.
How hard is it
The opening combines short rising notes and longer upper values against active lower eighths, then adds thirty-second detail. Coordinating that contrast supports an intermediate estimate.
About this piece
- Licence
- cc-zero
- Source
- musescore.com
More by Johann Sebastian Bach
- Prelude in C major, BWV 846Level 4, estimatedOpen to everyone
- Two-Part Invention No. 1 in C major, BWV 772Level 5, estimatedWith Maestro
- Italian Concerto in F major, BWV 971: III. PrestoLevel 9, estimatedWith Maestro
