Composer

:

Charles-Marie Widor

Genre

:

Chamber

Style

:

Quartet

Compose Date

:

1891

Average_duration

:

30:07

The Quartet for piano & strings in A minor, Op. 66, was composed by Charles-Marie Widor in 1907. The piece premiered on January 23, 1908, in Paris, with Widor himself on the piano and the Quatuor Capet on the strings. The quartet is divided into four movements. The first movement, marked Allegro moderato, begins with a somber and melancholic theme in the strings, which is then taken up by the piano. The movement is characterized by its rich harmonies and complex counterpoint, as well as its use of chromaticism and modulations. The second movement, marked Scherzo, is a lively and playful piece in A major. The piano and strings engage in a lively dialogue, with the piano often taking the lead. The movement is notable for its use of syncopation and irregular rhythms. The third movement, marked Andante, is a lyrical and expressive piece in F major. The piano and strings engage in a gentle and intimate conversation, with the piano often providing a delicate accompaniment to the strings. The movement is characterized by its use of rich harmonies and expressive melodies. The final movement, marked Allegro molto, is a lively and energetic piece in A minor. The movement begins with a fast and frenzied theme in the strings, which is then taken up by the piano. The movement is characterized by its use of virtuosic piano passages and fast-paced string runs, as well as its use of complex rhythms and harmonies. Overall, the Quartet for piano & strings in A minor, Op. 66, is a complex and expressive work that showcases Widor's mastery of counterpoint, harmony, and form. The piece is notable for its use of rich harmonies, expressive melodies, and virtuosic piano passages, as well as its use of chromaticism and irregular rhythms.

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