Composer

:

Sergey Prokofiev

Genre

:

Concerto

Style

:

Concerto

Compose Date

:

1933 - 1938

Average_duration

:

34:30

Movement_count

:

3

Movement ....

Sergey Prokofiev's 'Cello Concerto in E minor, Op. 58' was composed in 1938-39 and premiered on November 18, 1940, in Moscow, with the composer conducting and the cellist Lev Berezovsky as the soloist. The concerto is divided into three movements: Andante, Allegro giusto, and Tema con variazioni. The first movement, Andante, begins with a lyrical cello solo that sets the melancholic and introspective mood of the concerto. The orchestra enters with a subdued accompaniment, and the cello and orchestra engage in a dialogue that gradually builds in intensity. The movement ends with a return to the opening theme, played by the cello alone. The second movement, Allegro giusto, is a lively and playful scherzo that showcases the virtuosic abilities of the soloist. The cello and orchestra engage in a lively and rhythmic dialogue, with the cello often playing rapid-fire runs and arpeggios. The movement ends with a sudden and unexpected halt. The third movement, Tema con variazioni, is a set of variations on a simple and melancholic theme introduced by the cello. The variations range from introspective and lyrical to lively and playful, with the cello often playing in a high register. The movement ends with a return to the original theme, played by the cello alone, and a quiet and introspective coda. The 'Cello Concerto in E minor, Op. 58' is characterized by Prokofiev's distinctive blend of lyricism, virtuosity, and modernist harmonies. The concerto is notable for its use of unusual instrumental combinations, such as the use of the harp and celesta in the second movement. The concerto also showcases Prokofiev's ability to write for the cello, with the soloist often playing in a high register and using a wide range of techniques, such as pizzicato and harmonics. Overall, the 'Cello Concerto in E minor, Op. 58' is a masterpiece of the cello repertoire, showcasing Prokofiev's unique voice and the expressive capabilities of the cello.

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