Composer

:

Erwin Schulhoff

Genre

:

Chamber

Style

:

Chamber Music

Compose Date

:

ca. 1934

Average_duration

:

2:46

Erwin Schulhoff's Kassandra is a composition for solo piano that was composed in 1918. The piece premiered in Prague in 1920, and it is considered one of Schulhoff's most significant works. Kassandra is a three-movement piece that is characterized by its dissonant harmonies, complex rhythms, and unconventional use of the piano. The first movement of Kassandra is marked "Allegro con fuoco" and is characterized by its driving rhythms and angular melodies. The piece opens with a series of dissonant chords that set the tone for the rest of the movement. The main theme is introduced by the right hand and is accompanied by a syncopated rhythm in the left hand. The middle section of the movement features a slower, more lyrical melody that is contrasted with the opening theme. The movement ends with a return to the opening theme, which is played with even greater intensity than before. The second movement of Kassandra is marked "Andante con moto" and is characterized by its haunting melodies and unusual harmonies. The movement opens with a series of chords that create a sense of unease. The main theme is introduced by the right hand and is accompanied by a simple, repetitive rhythm in the left hand. The middle section of the movement features a more complex melody that is played in the left hand. The movement ends with a return to the opening theme, which is played with even greater intensity than before. The third movement of Kassandra is marked "Allegro molto" and is characterized by its frenetic energy and virtuosic piano writing. The movement opens with a series of rapid arpeggios that create a sense of urgency. The main theme is introduced by the right hand and is accompanied by a complex, syncopated rhythm in the left hand. The middle section of the movement features a slower, more lyrical melody that is contrasted with the opening theme. The movement ends with a return to the opening theme, which is played with even greater intensity than before. Overall, Kassandra is a challenging and complex piece that showcases Schulhoff's innovative approach to composition. The piece is characterized by its dissonant harmonies, complex rhythms, and unconventional use of the piano. Despite its difficulty, Kassandra remains a popular piece among pianists and audiences alike.

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