Prelude and Fugue in C major

Follow the fugue

The Prelude and Fugue K. 394 invites two different kinds of listening: the preparation of a musical space and the unfolding of independent voices. In his letter of 20 April 1782, as discussed in the signed editorial preface, Mozart connects the fugue with Constanze’s enthusiasm for his fugue playing. This gives a human context to the counterpoint without making it less exacting.

At the keyboard

Take one entry of the fugue’s subject and follow it even when another voice enters. Try playing two voices together before restoring the fuller texture, changing which one receives your attention. Aim for continuity in the lines that are already sounding, rather than a new accent at every entry. In the prelude, listen for how each gesture prepares what follows.

Music in this edition

1. Prelude and Fugue in C major