Ach Gott und Herr

Johann Sebastian BachBWV 714

BaroqueKnownfuguetoccataC minorAllegro moderato4/4~5 min
H6
Henle (estimated)
RCM 9ABRSM 9

About this piece

This is a highly virtuosic toccata and fugue based on the "Ach Gott und Herr" chorale. It contrasts brilliant, rapid passages with the dense fugal writing.

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Teacher notes

Requires significant finger dexterity and stamina, especially in the toccata sections.

Technical focus

counterpointfinger-independencevoicinglayered-textureflowing-sixteenths

Mood

dramaticpassionateintellectualpowerful

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Free sheet music on IMSLP

Frequently asked questions

How hard is Ach Gott und Herr (BWV 714) by Johann Sebastian Bach?

Ach Gott und Herr (BWV 714) is rated Henle level 6 of 9 — advanced repertoire, roughly ABRSM grades 7–8. In the RCM system it corresponds to about level 9.

What level do I need to play Ach Gott und Herr?

You should be comfortable at Henle level 6 — meaning you can already play level 5–6 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 Gott und Herr?

A typical performance of Ach Gott und Herr (BWV 714) lasts about 5 minutes.

Where can I get free sheet music for Ach Gott und Herr?

Ach Gott und Herr (BWV 714) is available as free public-domain sheet music on IMSLP — the score is linked directly from this page.