Composer

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Fartein Valen

Genre

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Keyboard

Style

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Character Piece

Compose Date

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1939 - 1940

Average_duration

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3:35

Intermezzo for piano, Op. 36 is a solo piano piece composed by Norwegian composer Fartein Valen. The piece was composed in 1932 and premiered the same year in Oslo, Norway. The Intermezzo is a single movement work that lasts approximately 5 minutes. The Intermezzo for piano, Op. 36 is characterized by its lyrical and expressive melodies, which are contrasted by more virtuosic and technically demanding passages. The piece begins with a gentle and introspective melody played in the right hand, accompanied by a simple and repetitive left-hand pattern. The melody gradually builds in intensity and complexity, leading to a more virtuosic section that showcases the pianist's technical abilities. The middle section of the Intermezzo is marked by a change in mood and tempo. The music becomes more agitated and frenzied, with rapid arpeggios and cascading runs in both hands. This section is followed by a return to the opening melody, which is now played with greater intensity and passion. The piece ends with a quiet and introspective coda, bringing the music to a peaceful and contemplative close. Overall, the Intermezzo for piano, Op. 36 is a beautiful and expressive work that showcases Valen's skill as a composer. The piece is notable for its use of contrasting moods and textures, as well as its lyrical and expressive melodies. It remains a popular work in the piano repertoire and is frequently performed by pianists around the world.

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