Fantasie
German composer
Definition
In W.F. Bach's output, a free keyboard piece without strict formal structure, characterised by dramatic harmonic excursions, sudden textural contrasts, and an improvisatory quality that pushes against the boundaries of Baroque formal convention. His ten fantasias (F.14–F.23) are the most harmonically adventurous works in his keyboard output.
Interpretive Guidance
W.F. Bach's fantasias inhabit an extraordinary harmonic world — they modulate to remote keys, use dissonances that are left momentarily unresolved, and change texture and character without formal preparation. Approach them as composed improvisations: flexibility of tempo, close attention to the harmonic journey, and willingness to linger on unexpected chords are all part of the style.