Composer

:

César Franck

Genre

:

Concerto

Style

:

Concerto

Compose Date

:

ca. 1835

Average_duration

:

30:30

César Franck's Piano Concerto No. 2 in G minor is a three-movement work for solo piano and orchestra. It was composed in 1884 and premiered on February 17, 1885, with the composer himself as the soloist. The first movement, marked Allegro moderato, begins with a dramatic orchestral introduction that sets the tone for the entire concerto. The piano enters with a virtuosic solo passage that leads into the main theme, which is characterized by its sweeping melody and lush harmonies. The movement features several contrasting sections, including a lyrical second theme and a stormy development section. The movement ends with a triumphant restatement of the main theme. The second movement, marked Lento con molto espressione, is a lyrical and introspective Adagio that showcases Franck's gift for melody. The piano introduces a hauntingly beautiful theme that is later taken up by the strings. The movement builds to a powerful climax before subsiding into a quiet coda. The final movement, marked Allegro non troppo, is a lively and energetic Rondo that brings the concerto to a thrilling conclusion. The piano and orchestra engage in a playful dialogue, with the piano introducing a catchy main theme that is developed throughout the movement. The movement features several virtuosic solo passages for the piano, including a dazzling cadenza. The concerto ends with a triumphant restatement of the main theme. Franck's Piano Concerto No. 2 is characterized by its lush harmonies, soaring melodies, and virtuosic piano writing. It is a testament to Franck's skill as a composer and his ability to create music that is both technically demanding and emotionally powerful. The concerto remains a beloved work in the piano repertoire and is frequently performed in concert halls around the world.

More....