Fugue Exposition: The initial section of a fugue where the main theme, or subject, is introduced by each voice in turn, establishing the thematic foundation of the piece.
Context and Significance
The fugue exposition is crucial in setting the thematic premise for the entire fugue. It typically appears in classical compositions and is prominently used in keyboard instruments like the organ and harpsichord. The exposition’s role is to introduce the subject in each voice, creating a layered texture that defines the fugue’s intricate structure. Its use is prevalent in Baroque music, where composers like Bach utilized it to showcase contrapuntal mastery.
Historical Background
Originating from the Latin word “fuga,” meaning “flight,” the fugue has roots in the Baroque period. The exposition became a defining element as composers sought to explore the possibilities of thematic development and counterpoint. Johann Sebastian Bach, among others, revolutionized its use, cementing the fugue as a staple of Western classical music. The exposition’s structure allowed for a complex interplay of voices, evolving from earlier contrapuntal practices.
Examples
In Bach’s “The Art of Fugue,” the exposition lays the groundwork for intricate thematic exploration. Each voice enters successively, showcasing the subject in a clear, methodical manner. Similarly, in his “Well-Tempered Clavier,” the fugue expositions demonstrate Bach’s skill in developing a single theme across multiple voices. These works exemplify the use of the exposition to establish a fugue’s thematic material, which is then elaborated upon throughout the composition.
Related Terms
Subject: The main theme introduced in the exposition.
Counterpoint: Technique of combining independent melodies.
Episode: A connecting passage between subject entries.
Stretto: Overlapping of subjects in close succession.