Toccata in F-sharp minor, BWV 914 [Saxophone Quartet]

Of the seven works titled Toccata by J.S. Bach, this piece is the second, written around 1710 when Bach was in his early twenties for the harpsichord, and consists of three movements.
First Movement: Sostenuto (sustained) - Un poco allegro (a little fast) The opening section is in the style of a free prelude, leading into the double fugue of the latter half.
Second Movement: Adagio (slowly) Has an improvisatory feel.
Third Movement: Allegro (fast) A three-voice fugue that develops with dazzling speed.

・Notes on Performance
First Movement: The eighth notes should be clearly articulated but sustained without accent. There are sections where the dynamics differ from other parts; this is an attempt to achieve the sustained sound effect using the original pedal. Be careful with the delicate balance of the double fugue from measure 14.
Second Movement: While improvisational freedom is desired, ensure the flow remains natural. Cues will be necessary at key points. Confirm who gives and receives the cues.
Third Movement: Some parts are technically challenging. Practice slowly using a metronome. Maintaining the tempo is very important. This is performed by four players, compensating for instrumentally problematic areas in the three-voice fugue. Pay attention to the balance of each voice.

＊If there is a time limit, such as in a competition, we recommend starting from measure 14 in the latter half of the first movement, performing up to measure 41, then performing the fugue from measure 71 to 142 in the third movement.
＊The balance of each volume is delicate. It changes depending on the orientation of the instrument, so please adjust it while considering the angle at which you are sitting on the chair. (Hiroki Saito)