How many voices (lines) can a fugue realistically have?

The number of parts (voices) in the fugue is likewise flexible. Most fugues are in three or four voices (“à 3” or “à 4”), but not all of these are used at any given moment; it is common for an episode to proceed in as few as two voices.

1. What fugue has the most voices?
2. What are the characteristics of fugue?
3. Is fugue vocal or instrumental?
4. How long should a fugue subject be?

What fugue has the most voices?

That 7-voiced Credo fugue in the BMM (BWV 232) is the biggest complete, strict Bach fugue I can think of at the moment (7 strictly fugal parts, equally melodic and sharing musical material all the way through...plus a free bass).

What are the characteristics of fugue?

A fugue usually has three main sections: an exposition, a development and a final entry that contains the return of the subject in the fugue's tonic key. Some fugues have a recapitulation.

Is fugue vocal or instrumental?

A fugue is the most complex polyphonic musical form, involving imitation among the parts (called “voices” whether they are vocal or instrumental). The word fugue comes from fuga, meaning to chase since each voice “chases” the previous one.

How long should a fugue subject be?

The "subject" of a fugue is its main theme. It is generally short--one or two measures--but may be longer (3-4 measures).