Topmusicanswers
So theoretically a fugue shouldn't be all that much harder to write, especially with the free counterpoint that makes up the majority of the fugue. 2 measures, that's it. I have heard that if you don't have a long enough subject, you won't have the implied harmony you want in a fugue exposition.
- What makes a good fugue subject?
- How long should a fugue subject be?
- What measure does a fugue begin?
- What is between two subjects in a fugue?
What makes a good fugue subject?
Any exercise emphasizing melodic development, counterpoint exercises, or themes and variations will help. A big part of writing a fugue subject is keeping in mind how other melodies can interact with it while you're constructing it. Usually simple is better. Listen to Bach's Little Fugue in G minor.
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).
What measure does a fugue begin?
Exposition. A fugue begins with the exposition of its subject in one of the voices alone in the tonic key. After the statement of the subject, a second voice enters and states the subject with the subject transposed to another key (usually the dominant or subdominant), which is known as the answer.
What is between two subjects in a fugue?
A fugue usually has three sections: an exposition, a development, and finally, a recapitulation that contains the return of the subject in the fugue's tonic key, though not all fugues have a recapitulation.
