Composer

:

Donald Grantham

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Fantasy

Compose Date

:

1996

Average_duration

:

11:51

Fantasy Variations on Gershwin's Second Prelude for Piano is a contemporary classical composition by American composer Donald Grantham. The piece was composed in 1992 and premiered on March 5, 1993, by the University of Texas Wind Ensemble, conducted by Jerry Junkin. The piece is divided into five movements, each exploring different variations of George Gershwin's Second Prelude for Piano. The first movement, "Introduction," sets the stage for the variations to come, with a slow and mysterious opening that gradually builds in intensity. The second movement, "Blues," features a solo trumpet playing a bluesy melody, accompanied by the rest of the ensemble. The third movement, "Waltz," is a playful and lighthearted take on the original prelude, with a waltz rhythm and a whimsical melody. The fourth movement, "Rag," is a fast and energetic variation, with syncopated rhythms and a lively melody. The final movement, "Finale," brings the piece to a dramatic close, with a grand and triumphant rendition of the original prelude. Grantham's Fantasy Variations on Gershwin's Second Prelude for Piano is characterized by its use of jazz and blues elements, as well as its virtuosic writing for the wind ensemble. The piece showcases the individual talents of each member of the ensemble, with solos for trumpet, clarinet, and saxophone, among others. The variations on Gershwin's prelude are inventive and creative, while still remaining true to the original melody and harmonies. Overall, Fantasy Variations on Gershwin's Second Prelude for Piano is a dynamic and engaging piece of contemporary classical music, showcasing the talents of both the composer and the performers. Its use of jazz and blues elements, combined with its virtuosic writing and inventive variations, make it a standout work in the wind ensemble repertoire.

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