Composer

:

Sigismund Thalberg

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Variations

Average_duration

:

15:50

Sigismund Thalberg's "Grand fantaisia and variations on themes from Norma, Op. 12" is a virtuosic piano work that was composed in the mid-19th century. The piece was premiered in Paris in 1835, and it quickly became one of Thalberg's most popular compositions. The work is divided into four movements, each of which is based on themes from Vincenzo Bellini's opera "Norma." The first movement is a grand introduction that sets the stage for the variations to come. The second movement is a set of variations on the famous aria "Casta diva," which is one of the most well-known pieces from the opera. Thalberg's variations are highly virtuosic and showcase the pianist's technical abilities. The third movement is a set of variations on the duet "Mira, o Norma," which is a dramatic and emotional piece from the opera. Thalberg's variations are more subdued than those in the previous movement, but they still require a high level of technical skill from the pianist. The final movement is a set of variations on the "Warrior's Chorus," which is a rousing and triumphant piece from the opera. Thalberg's variations are highly energetic and showcase the pianist's ability to create a sense of drama and excitement on the piano. Overall, Thalberg's "Grand fantaisia and variations on themes from Norma, Op. 12" is a highly virtuosic and technically demanding work that showcases the pianist's abilities to create a sense of drama and excitement on the piano. The piece remains popular among pianists and audiences alike, and it is considered to be one of Thalberg's most important compositions.

More....