Composer

:

Charles Villiers Stanford

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Prelude

Compose Date

:

1920

Average_duration

:

50:51

Charles Villiers Stanford's Preludes (24), Set 2, Op. 179 is a collection of 24 preludes for solo piano. The set was composed in 1918 and premiered in the same year. The preludes are divided into two books, each containing 12 preludes. The first book of preludes is characterized by its lyrical and expressive melodies, while the second book is more virtuosic and technically demanding. The preludes are written in a variety of keys and tempos, showcasing Stanford's mastery of different musical styles. The first prelude in the set, marked "Andante con moto," is a gentle and introspective piece in the key of C major. The second prelude, marked "Allegro," is a lively and energetic piece in the key of G minor. The third prelude, marked "Andante," is a melancholic and introspective piece in the key of E-flat major. The fourth prelude, marked "Allegro con brio," is a fast and lively piece in the key of A minor. The fifth prelude, marked "Andante espressivo," is a lyrical and expressive piece in the key of F-sharp minor. The sixth prelude, marked "Allegro vivace," is a fast and lively piece in the key of D major. The seventh prelude, marked "Andante con moto," is a gentle and introspective piece in the key of B-flat minor. The eighth prelude, marked "Allegro moderato," is a lively and energetic piece in the key of G major. The ninth prelude, marked "Andante sostenuto," is a melancholic and introspective piece in the key of E minor. The tenth prelude, marked "Allegro con fuoco," is a fast and fiery piece in the key of B minor. The eleventh prelude, marked "Andante tranquillo," is a gentle and peaceful piece in the key of A-flat major. The twelfth prelude, marked "Allegro molto," is a fast and lively piece in the key of C minor. Overall, Stanford's Preludes (24), Set 2, Op. 179 is a masterful collection of piano music that showcases the composer's versatility and skill. The preludes are a testament to Stanford's ability to write music that is both technically demanding and emotionally expressive.

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