Ach, daß nicht die letzte Stunde

Johann Sebastian BachBWV 439

BaroqueKnownE minorAdagio4/4~3 min
H5
Henle (estimated)
RCM 6ABRSM 6

About this piece

This chorale prelude by J.S. Bach, part of his Little Organ Book, transforms a familiar hymn tune. Its musical distinctiveness lies in the way Bach elaborates the melody with rich harmonies and contrapuntal texture.

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Teacher notes

Focus on maintaining a clear melodic line amidst the contrapuntal texture and precise articulation.

Technical focus

counterpointvoicingcantabileflowing-sixteenths

Mood

contemplativemelancholicserene

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Free sheet music on IMSLP

Frequently asked questions

How hard is Ach, daß nicht die letzte Stunde (BWV 439) by Johann Sebastian Bach?

Ach, daß nicht die letzte Stunde (BWV 439) is rated Henle level 5 of 9 — late intermediate repertoire, roughly ABRSM grades 6–7. In the RCM system it corresponds to about level 6.

What level do I need to play Ach, daß nicht die letzte Stunde?

You should be comfortable at Henle level 5 — meaning you can already play level 4–5 pieces cleanly. Learning it one level early is possible as a stretch piece, but more than that usually leads to months of frustration.

How long is Ach, daß nicht die letzte Stunde?

A typical performance of Ach, daß nicht die letzte Stunde (BWV 439) lasts about 3 minutes.

Where can I get free sheet music for Ach, daß nicht die letzte Stunde?

Ach, daß nicht die letzte Stunde (BWV 439) is available as free public-domain sheet music on IMSLP — the score is linked directly from this page.