Composer

:

Norman Dello Joio

Genre

:

Chamber

Style

:

Variations

Average_duration

:

14:34

Norman Dello Joio's 'Variations and Capriccio' is a composition for solo piano that was composed in 1952. The piece was premiered by pianist John Kirkpatrick in New York City on November 17, 1952. The composition consists of three movements: Variation I, Variation II, and Capriccio. The first movement, Variation I, is a slow and contemplative piece that begins with a simple melody played in the right hand. The left hand provides a gentle accompaniment with broken chords. As the movement progresses, the melody is developed and expanded upon with variations in rhythm and harmony. The movement ends with a return to the original melody, played softly and delicately. The second movement, Variation II, is a lively and energetic piece that contrasts with the first movement. The movement begins with a fast and rhythmic melody played in the right hand, accompanied by a driving bass line in the left hand. The melody is then developed and expanded upon with variations in rhythm and harmony. The movement ends with a return to the original melody, played with even more energy and intensity than before. The final movement, Capriccio, is a playful and whimsical piece that combines elements of the previous two movements. The movement begins with a fast and rhythmic melody played in the right hand, accompanied by a light and bouncy bass line in the left hand. The melody is then developed and expanded upon with variations in rhythm and harmony. The movement ends with a return to the original melody, played with a sense of joy and exuberance. Overall, 'Variations and Capriccio' is a virtuosic and challenging piece for the solo pianist. The composition showcases Dello Joio's skill in creating memorable melodies and developing them through variations in rhythm and harmony. The piece also demonstrates Dello Joio's ability to combine contrasting moods and styles within a single composition.

More....