Composer

:

Franz Schmidt

Genre

:

Concerto

Compose Date

:

1923

Average_duration

:

29:37

Movement_count

:

7

Movement ....

Franz Schmidt's Concertante Variationen, on a Theme by Beethoven is a work for piano and orchestra that was composed in 1931. The piece was premiered on January 22, 1932, in Vienna, with the composer himself conducting the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra and the pianist, Eduard Erdmann, as the soloist. The work consists of a theme and eight variations, with a coda that brings the piece to a close. The theme is taken from the second movement of Beethoven's Piano Sonata No. 32 in C minor, Op. 111. Schmidt's variations are highly virtuosic and showcase the technical abilities of the soloist. The orchestration is rich and colorful, with the orchestra often taking on a prominent role in the music. The first variation is marked by a lively and playful character, with the piano and orchestra engaging in a dialogue. The second variation is more subdued, with the piano taking on a more lyrical role. The third variation is marked by a sense of urgency and tension, with the piano and orchestra building towards a climactic moment. The fourth variation is a scherzo-like section, with the piano and orchestra engaging in a playful and rhythmic dialogue. The fifth variation is marked by a sense of mystery and introspection, with the piano taking on a more contemplative role. The sixth variation is a virtuosic display of technical prowess, with the piano and orchestra engaging in a fast-paced and energetic dialogue. The seventh variation is marked by a sense of grandeur and majesty, with the orchestra taking on a more prominent role in the music. The eighth variation is a triumphant and celebratory section, with the piano and orchestra building towards a grand finale. Overall, Schmidt's Concertante Variationen, on a Theme by Beethoven is a highly virtuosic and colorful work that showcases the technical abilities of the soloist and the rich orchestration of the composer. The piece is a testament to Schmidt's skill as a composer and his ability to create music that is both technically demanding and emotionally engaging.

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