An Wasserflüssen Babylon

Johann Sebastian BachBWV 653b

BaroqueWell-knownG minorGrave3/4~6 min
H6
Henle (estimated)
RCM 9ABRSM 7

About this piece

This is a profound chorale prelude by Bach, based on the hymn tune 'An Wasserflüssen Babylon'. It is notable for its rich contrapuntal texture and its deeply expressive harmonic language.

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Teacher notes

Mastering the independent melodic lines and achieving a clear, balanced voicing is crucial.

Technical focus

counterpointvoicinglayered-textureornamentationcantabile

Mood

contemplativesereneintellectual

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Free sheet music on IMSLP

Frequently asked questions

How hard is An Wasserflüssen Babylon (BWV 653b) by Johann Sebastian Bach?

An Wasserflüssen Babylon (BWV 653b) 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 An Wasserflüssen Babylon?

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 An Wasserflüssen Babylon?

A typical performance of An Wasserflüssen Babylon (BWV 653b) lasts about 6 minutes.

Where can I get free sheet music for An Wasserflüssen Babylon?

An Wasserflüssen Babylon (BWV 653b) is available as free public-domain sheet music on IMSLP — the score is linked directly from this page.