I have started studying Bach. I wanted to ask the experts for enlightenment regarding the use of the pedal in the prelude in question.
Specifically, whether one should change it at every measure or on the two half notes of each measure.
By ear, both choices seem "pleasant" to me. However, I am using a digital piano, so the perception might be slightly altered compared to what can be obtained with an acoustic one.
Ps. this piece seems like a masterpiece in its simplicity and musicality. And, I believe, very instructive also in terms of piano technique.
I don't think it is the case to use the pedal... at least for now while you begin to study it. It is true that we see some great pianists using it on Bach, but it is a matter for experts and very much discussed. Recently I listened to and saw Andras Schiff using it on the complete French suites. They are nonetheless less polyphonic pieces than the preludes and fugues. I must say that I found it very skillful and pleasant. It has been much discussed.
The eternal discussion: "if Bach, Scarlatti etc. had the instruments and the ear of today, would they use the pedal?" or "In playing our instrument of today we must seek historical sonorities". Perhaps in my opinion... a useless quarrel. No one can imagine what the true "inner sound" of these Greats was. They appeared in that Era, perhaps because they had to produce that sound in that Era... or perhaps not. But we must set harmonic, polyphonic and "taste" limits. Hearing Glenn Gould play the sarabande of the first French suite with pedal is enchanting, but perhaps it might not work on the fugues. Fine for the Concerto Italiano and for the Goldbergs.
So... maybe for now... avoid it... all the more so because the piece in question does not require it.
