Composer

:

Charles-Valentin Alkan

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

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Etude: Concert

Compose Date

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1846 - 1857

Publication Date

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1857

Average_duration

:

8:23

"En rhythme molossique in D minor, Op. 39/2" is a piano piece composed by Charles-Valentin Alkan, a French composer and pianist of the Romantic era. The piece was composed in 1857 and premiered in the same year in Paris. It is part of a set of twelve pieces titled "Douze études dans tous les tons mineurs" (Twelve studies in all minor keys). The piece is characterized by its fast and energetic tempo, with a strong emphasis on rhythm. The title "En rhythme molossique" refers to the use of a molossus, a metrical foot consisting of three long syllables, which gives the piece a powerful and driving quality. The piece is written in D minor, a key often associated with melancholy and drama. The piece is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct character. The first movement is marked "Allegro moderato" and features a driving rhythm in the left hand, with the right hand playing a melody that alternates between rapid runs and more lyrical passages. The second movement, marked "Andante con moto," is more introspective and lyrical, with a haunting melody in the right hand accompanied by a simple chordal accompaniment in the left. The final movement, marked "Allegro," returns to the driving rhythm of the first movement, with a virtuosic display of rapid runs and arpeggios in both hands. Overall, "En rhythme molossique in D minor, Op. 39/2" is a challenging and impressive piece that showcases Alkan's technical skill and musical imagination. Its use of rhythm and melody create a powerful and dramatic effect that is sure to captivate audiences.

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