Composer

:

Dmitry Kabalevsky

Genre

:

Concerto

Style

:

Rhapsody

Compose Date

:

1963

Average_duration

:

13:27

Dmitry Kabalevsky's 'Rhapsody, Op. 75' is a piano concerto that was composed in 1960. It was premiered on October 28, 1960, in Moscow, with the composer himself as the soloist and the USSR State Symphony Orchestra conducted by Evgeny Svetlanov. The 'Rhapsody' is a one-movement work that is divided into three distinct sections. The first section is marked Allegro moderato and is characterized by a lively and energetic theme that is introduced by the piano. This theme is then developed and expanded upon by the orchestra, with the piano providing virtuosic flourishes and runs. The second section is marked Andante and is a more lyrical and introspective section. The piano introduces a new theme that is accompanied by lush strings and woodwinds. This theme is then developed and expanded upon by the orchestra, with the piano providing delicate and expressive playing. The final section is marked Allegro con brio and is a return to the energetic and lively theme of the first section. The piano and orchestra engage in a playful and virtuosic dialogue, with the piano providing dazzling runs and the orchestra responding with bursts of energy and excitement. Overall, the 'Rhapsody' is a showcase for the virtuosity of the solo pianist, with Kabalevsky providing ample opportunities for the pianist to display their technical prowess and musical sensitivity. The work is characterized by its lively and energetic themes, lush orchestration, and playful dialogue between the piano and orchestra.

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