Composer

:

Ruth Crawford Seeger

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Song: Art Song

Compose Date

:

1932

Publication Date

:

1973

First Performance

:

Mar 27, 1933

Average_duration

:

8:59

Movement_count

:

2

Movement ....

Ruth Crawford Seeger's "Two Ricercare" is a composition for solo piano that was composed in 1959. The piece was premiered on May 1, 1960, at the New School for Social Research in New York City. The composition consists of two movements, each with its own distinct characteristics. The first movement, marked "Moderato," is a twelve-tone composition that is characterized by its angular melodies and dissonant harmonies. The piece begins with a series of staccato chords that are played in the left hand, while the right hand plays a melody that is based on the twelve-tone row. The melody is then repeated in various registers and with different articulations, creating a sense of tension and instability. The movement ends with a series of descending chords that bring the piece to a close. The second movement, marked "Andante," is a more lyrical and expressive piece that is based on a theme and variations. The theme is introduced in the left hand and is a simple, folk-like melody that is reminiscent of Seeger's interest in American folk music. The right hand then plays a series of variations on the theme, each with its own distinct character and mood. The variations range from delicate and introspective to bold and virtuosic, showcasing Seeger's skill as a composer and pianist. The movement ends with a return to the theme, played in a more elaborate and ornamented form. Overall, "Two Ricercare" is a challenging and complex composition that showcases Seeger's unique style and approach to composition. The use of twelve-tone techniques in the first movement and the incorporation of folk melodies in the second movement demonstrate Seeger's interest in exploring new musical ideas while also drawing on traditional forms and styles.

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