Composer

:

Henry Cowell

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Keyboard

Compose Date

:

Nov 1917

Publication Date

:

1922

Average_duration

:

0:47

'What's This?, HC 213/2' is a solo piano piece composed by Henry Cowell in 1929. The piece premiered on May 10, 1930, at the New School for Social Research in New York City. It consists of three movements, each with its own unique characteristics. The first movement, marked "With a strong, driving rhythm," is characterized by its syncopated rhythms and percussive piano techniques. Cowell employs a variety of extended techniques, including playing inside the piano and using the fists and forearms to strike the keys. The result is a highly rhythmic and energetic movement that showcases Cowell's innovative approach to piano composition. The second movement, marked "Slowly, with great expression," is a stark contrast to the first. It is a lyrical and introspective piece that features a simple, yet haunting melody. Cowell uses a variety of dynamic and expressive techniques to convey a sense of longing and melancholy. The movement is notable for its use of dissonant harmonies and unconventional chord progressions. The final movement, marked "With great speed and energy," returns to the driving rhythms of the first. It is a virtuosic display of piano technique, featuring rapid-fire arpeggios and complex rhythms. Cowell once again employs a variety of extended techniques, including playing inside the piano and using the elbows to strike the keys. The movement builds to a frenzied climax before coming to a sudden stop. Overall, 'What's This?, HC 213/2' is a highly innovative and influential piece of piano music. Cowell's use of extended techniques and unconventional harmonies paved the way for future generations of composers to explore new possibilities for the piano. The piece remains a challenging and rewarding work for pianists to this day.

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