Examples

Chorale prelude, “Wachet auf, ruft uns die Stimme” by Johann Sebastian Bach

This example is very similar to the previous one; in fact, both were composed by Bach for publication in the same collection. This time, however, the LH carries the hymn melody, and the feet play a bass line that is somewhat less active than the second manual part. The registration indications, again by the composer, specify the pitch foundation for each part.

The first part (LH) is notated in the tenor range, and sounds in the same due to its 8' foundation. The second part (RH), written in a low treble range, is heard in its notated range for the same reason. The pedal part, with its 16' foundation, sounds in the usual organ bass range.

  • Great (first part): Cromorne 8', Octave 4'
  • Swell (second part): Bourdon 8', Copula 4', Nazard 2 2/3'
  • Pedal: Subbass 16', Gedackt 8'

Some alternatives:

  • Gt (first part): 8' & 4' principals or foundations

Other parts same as above:

  • Gt (first part): Trompete 8', Sw: cornet, Pd.: flutes 16' 8' 4'