Composer

:

Nikolay Medtner

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Character Piece

Compose Date

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ca. 1915

Average_duration

:

2:09

Nikolay Medtner's 'Fairy Tale (Skazka) in D minor' is a solo piano piece that was composed in 1910. It was premiered by the composer himself in Moscow in the same year. The piece is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct characteristics. The first movement, marked 'Allegretto', is in D minor and is characterized by a melancholic and introspective mood. The opening theme is played in the left hand and is accompanied by a simple arpeggio in the right hand. The theme is then repeated in the right hand, with the left hand providing a more complex accompaniment. The middle section of the movement is more agitated, with a faster tempo and more complex rhythms. The movement ends with a return to the opening theme, played in a more subdued manner. The second movement, marked 'Andantino', is in G major and is more lyrical and flowing than the first. The opening theme is played in the right hand, with a simple accompaniment in the left. The theme is then repeated in the left hand, with a more complex accompaniment in the right. The middle section of the movement is more virtuosic, with fast runs and arpeggios in both hands. The movement ends with a return to the opening theme, played in a more ornamented manner. The third movement, marked 'Allegro molto', is in D minor and is the most energetic and dramatic of the three. The opening theme is played in octaves in the right hand, with a fast and complex accompaniment in the left. The middle section of the movement is more lyrical, with a slower tempo and a more flowing melody. The movement ends with a return to the opening theme, played in a more virtuosic and dramatic manner. Overall, 'Fairy Tale (Skazka) in D minor' is a beautiful and expressive piece that showcases Medtner's skill as a composer and pianist. The piece is characterized by its melancholic and introspective mood, lyrical melodies, and virtuosic passages. It remains a popular and frequently performed work in the solo piano repertoire.

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