Hallescher Bach
German composer
Definition
The Halle Bach — W.F. Bach's nickname, derived from his long tenure as organist at the Marktkirche Unserer Lieben Frauen in Halle (1746–1764), the city most associated with his career. Used to distinguish him from his brothers and father in the Bach family.
Interpretive Guidance
W.F. Bach's organ background is audible throughout his keyboard writing — the thick, polyphonic textures and the 8 Fugues sans pédale reflect an organist's habits of voice-leading and sustained counterpoint. Approach his keyboard works with the sustained legato and careful voice balance of an organist rather than the lighter finger-articulation of a harpsichordist.