July 21, 2025
Performance Record of J.S. Bach – Invention No. 13 in A Minor, BWV 784
A performance record of J.S. Bach’s Invention No. 13 in A Minor (BWV 784), recorded in January 2025 by Reiji at age 8. This interpretation focuses on the expressive use of diminished seventh chords, which add a uniquely dark and dramatic color to the minor tonality. Reiji explores the contrast between overt and subtle uses of these chords, maintaining structural balance while highlighting harmonic tension.
Reiji's Observations
- What stood out to me right away was how the diminished seventh chords appear between the usual minor harmonies—it makes the piece sound darker than usual, in a really cool way.
- There are a few of these diminished chords throughout the piece. In some spots, I played them to stand out clearly, but in others I blended them more gently into the texture.
- I tried to be careful with how each one felt—whether I wanted the listener to notice the shift or just sense something mysterious in the background.
* These are personal reflections by the performer.
| URL | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kdGDmBaWj7Q |
|---|---|
| Reference Sheet Music |
G. Henle Verlag: J.S. BACH Inventions and Symphonies IMSLP/Petrucci Music Library, Public Domain |
| Recording date |
January 24, 2025 Performance by an 8-year-old |
AI Assistant’s Notes and Inferences
- This performance emphasizes Reiji’s growing awareness of harmonic nuance, especially through his attention to diminished seventh chords and their placement within minor harmonies.
- The alternating treatment—sometimes bringing them forward, other times blending them subtly—shows a nuanced understanding of balance and contrast.
- Reiji’s interpretation carefully maintains structural clarity while introducing emotional depth through harmonic shading.
- His focus on the “feel” of each harmonic moment demonstrates an evolving expressive maturity that complements his analytical curiosity.