Composer

:

Henri Herz

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

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Variations

Average_duration

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10:19

Henri Herz's "Variations on Non Più Mesta from Rossini's La Cenerentola, Op. 60" is a virtuosic piano work that was composed in the 19th century. The piece was premiered in Paris in 1830 and quickly became a popular showpiece for pianists of the time. The work is comprised of a theme and six variations, each of which showcases the technical prowess of the performer. The theme is taken from Rossini's opera La Cenerentola and is a lively and playful melody in 6/8 time. The variations that follow are increasingly complex and demanding, featuring rapid runs, arpeggios, and intricate fingerwork. The first variation is a simple embellishment of the theme, featuring trills and grace notes. The second variation is more elaborate, with the melody moving between the hands and featuring rapid scale passages. The third variation is a slower, more lyrical section that showcases the performer's ability to shape a melody. The fourth variation is a technical tour-de-force, with the melody moving rapidly up and down the keyboard in a series of arpeggios. The fifth variation is a playful and whimsical section, with the melody bouncing between the hands and featuring unexpected rhythmic twists. The final variation is a grand finale, with the melody played in octaves and featuring rapid runs and arpeggios. Overall, Herz's "Variations on Non Più Mesta" is a challenging and impressive work that showcases the virtuosity of the performer. Its popularity in the 19th century is a testament to its technical demands and musical appeal.

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