Composer

:

Béla Bartók

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Keyboard

Compose Date

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1926 - 1939

Average_duration

:

154:47

Movement_count

:

153

Movement ....

Mikrokosmos (153), Sz. 107 is a collection of 153 piano pieces composed by Béla Bartók between 1926 and 1939. The collection is divided into six volumes, each with its own unique character and style. The pieces range in difficulty from very easy to extremely challenging, making them suitable for pianists of all levels. The first volume of Mikrokosmos was composed in 1926 and premiered in Budapest in 1927. The final volume was completed in 1939, just before Bartók emigrated to the United States. The collection as a whole was not premiered until 1940, after Bartók had settled in the US. The six volumes of Mikrokosmos are organized according to difficulty, with each volume building on the techniques and concepts introduced in the previous one. The first volume is the easiest, with simple melodies and rhythms, while the later volumes are more complex and challenging. The movements in Mikrokosmos are varied in style and character, ranging from folk-inspired dances to abstract, atonal pieces. Many of the pieces are based on traditional Hungarian folk melodies, which Bartók collected and studied extensively throughout his career. Other pieces are more experimental, exploring new techniques and sounds on the piano. One of the most notable characteristics of Mikrokosmos is its use of progressive tonality. Bartók often uses unconventional scales and modes, as well as dissonant harmonies, to create a sense of tension and instability. This reflects his interest in exploring new harmonic possibilities and breaking away from traditional tonal systems. Overall, Mikrokosmos is a landmark collection of piano music that showcases Bartók's innovative approach to composition and his deep understanding of traditional folk music. Its wide range of styles and difficulty levels make it a valuable resource for pianists of all levels, and its influence can be heard in the work of many contemporary composers.

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