Composer

:

Richard Strauss

Genre

:

Concerto

Style

:

Rondo

Compose Date

:

1885 - 1886

Average_duration

:

19:56

Richard Strauss composed the Burleske for piano and orchestra in D minor, AV 85 in 1885-86. The piece premiered on March 21, 1890, in Munich, with Strauss himself as the soloist and Hermann Levi conducting the orchestra. The Burleske is a one-movement work that lasts around 20 minutes. The Burleske is characterized by its virtuosic piano writing and its playful, humorous tone. The piece begins with a bold, declamatory statement from the orchestra, which is soon joined by the piano. The piano then launches into a series of rapid, virtuosic runs and arpeggios, which are interspersed with more lyrical passages. The orchestra provides a lively accompaniment, with colorful woodwind and brass writing and a driving rhythmic pulse. The middle section of the Burleske features a more lyrical theme, which is introduced by the piano and then taken up by the orchestra. This theme is developed through a series of variations, which showcase Strauss's skill as a composer of both melody and harmony. The piano writing in this section is particularly beautiful, with delicate filigree passages and soaring melodies. The final section of the Burleske returns to the playful, virtuosic character of the opening. The piano and orchestra engage in a lively dialogue, with the piano tossing off dazzling runs and the orchestra responding with colorful bursts of sound. The piece ends with a triumphant flourish from the piano and a final burst of energy from the orchestra. Overall, the Burleske is a delightful showcase for both the piano and the orchestra. It displays Strauss's skill as a composer of both melody and harmony, as well as his ability to create a playful, humorous tone. The piece remains a popular part of the piano and orchestra repertoire to this day.

More....