Composer

:

Nikolay Medtner

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Character Piece

Compose Date

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1908 - 1909

Average_duration

:

14:19

Movement_count

:

3

Movement ....

Nikolay Medtner's 'Novelles (3), Op. 17' is a set of three piano pieces composed in 1904. The work premiered in Moscow in the same year, with the composer himself performing. The three movements are titled 'Mit Leidenschaftlichem Ausdruck' (With passionate expression), 'Sehr rasch' (Very fast), and 'Langsam, getragen' (Slow, sustained). The first movement, 'Mit Leidenschaftlichem Ausdruck', is characterized by its intense and passionate expression. The piece begins with a slow and melancholic melody, which gradually builds in intensity and complexity. The middle section features a faster and more rhythmic theme, which is contrasted by a return to the opening melody. The movement ends with a powerful and dramatic coda. The second movement, 'Sehr rasch', is a virtuosic and energetic scherzo. The piece is marked by its rapid and intricate figurations, which are contrasted by moments of lyrical repose. The middle section features a more subdued and contemplative theme, which is then developed and transformed in the final section. The final movement, 'Langsam, getragen', is a slow and sustained piece that is marked by its expressive and introspective character. The piece begins with a simple and haunting melody, which is then developed and expanded upon. The middle section features a more agitated and turbulent theme, which is then resolved in a return to the opening melody. The movement ends with a quiet and contemplative coda. Overall, 'Novelles (3), Op. 17' is a work that showcases Medtner's virtuosic piano writing and his ability to create music that is both expressive and introspective. The three movements are united by a common theme of emotional intensity and complexity, and the work as a whole is a testament to Medtner's skill as a composer.

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