Composer

:

John Ireland

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Keyboard

Compose Date

:

1911

Average_duration

:

5:36

Capriccio is a composition for piano solo by the British composer John Ireland. It was composed in 1932 and premiered on 22 November of the same year by the pianist Harriet Cohen at the Wigmore Hall in London. The piece is divided into three movements and has a total duration of approximately 12 minutes. The first movement, marked Allegro moderato, is characterized by its lively and playful nature. It begins with a sprightly theme in the right hand, accompanied by a syncopated rhythm in the left hand. The theme is then developed and expanded upon, with the left hand taking on a more prominent role. The movement ends with a return to the opening theme, played in a more subdued manner. The second movement, marked Lento espressivo, is a stark contrast to the first. It is a slow and introspective piece, with a haunting melody that is played in the right hand. The left hand provides a simple accompaniment, consisting of broken chords. The movement builds to a climax before subsiding into a quiet and reflective coda. The final movement, marked Allegro giocoso, is a return to the playful and energetic mood of the first. It begins with a lively theme in the right hand, accompanied by a driving rhythm in the left hand. The theme is then developed and expanded upon, with the left hand taking on a more complex and virtuosic role. The movement ends with a flourish, bringing the piece to a rousing conclusion. Overall, Capriccio is a virtuosic and highly expressive work that showcases Ireland's skill as a composer and pianist. Its three contrasting movements provide a wide range of emotions and moods, making it a popular choice among pianists and audiences alike.

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