Composer

:

Istvan Anhalt

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Fantasy

Compose Date

:

1954

Average_duration

:

11:07

Fantasia for piano is a composition by Hungarian-Canadian composer Istvan Anhalt. It was composed in 1989 and premiered on March 22, 1990, at the Glenn Gould Studio in Toronto, Canada. The piece is divided into three movements and has a total duration of approximately 15 minutes. The first movement, marked "Allegro con brio," is characterized by its energetic and rhythmic drive. The piano part is virtuosic and demanding, with rapid runs and arpeggios interspersed with moments of lyricism. The movement is in sonata form, with a lively exposition, a more introspective development section, and a triumphant recapitulation. The second movement, marked "Adagio," is a stark contrast to the first. It is a slow, meditative piece that explores the piano's sonorities and textures. The harmonies are rich and complex, and the melody is hauntingly beautiful. The movement is in ternary form, with a central section that builds to a climax before returning to the opening material. The final movement, marked "Allegro vivace," is a lively and playful romp. It is characterized by its syncopated rhythms and jazzy harmonies. The piano part is once again virtuosic, with rapid-fire runs and arpeggios. The movement is in rondo form, with a catchy main theme that returns several times throughout the piece. Overall, Fantasia for piano is a challenging and rewarding work for both performer and listener. It showcases Anhalt's mastery of both traditional and contemporary musical idioms, and his ability to create a cohesive and engaging musical narrative.

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