Composer

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Béla Bartók

Genre

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Keyboard

Style

:

Character Piece

Compose Date

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1911

Average_duration

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3:09

Allegro barbaro, Sz. 49 is a solo piano piece composed by Béla Bartók in 1911. It premiered on November 30, 1911, in Budapest, Hungary, with the composer himself performing. The piece is one of Bartók's most famous and frequently performed works. Allegro barbaro is a one-movement piece that lasts approximately three and a half minutes. It is written in a modified rondo form, with a recurring A section and contrasting B and C sections. The piece is characterized by its driving rhythms, dissonant harmonies, and folk-inspired melodies. The opening of the piece features a series of repeated chords that create a sense of urgency and tension. This leads into the first theme, which is based on a Hungarian folk melody. The melody is played in octaves and is accompanied by a syncopated rhythm in the left hand. The theme is repeated several times, with variations and embellishments added each time. The B section of the piece is more subdued and features a slower, more lyrical melody. This section provides a contrast to the driving rhythms of the A section. The C section is more virtuosic and features rapid arpeggios and runs in both hands. This section builds to a climax before returning to the A section. One of the most striking features of Allegro barbaro is its use of dissonant harmonies. Bartók was known for his use of unconventional harmonies and scales, and this piece is no exception. The piece is written in the Mixolydian mode, which gives it a distinctly folk-like quality. However, Bartók also uses chromaticism and bitonality to create a sense of tension and instability. Overall, Allegro barbaro is a powerful and dynamic piece that showcases Bartók's unique style and his interest in folk music. Its driving rhythms and dissonant harmonies make it a challenging and exciting piece for pianists to perform.

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