Composer

:

Charles Tomlinson Griffes

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Sonata

Compose Date

:

Dec 1917 - Jan 1918

Publication Date

:

1921

First Performance

:

Feb 26, 1918

Average_duration

:

15:14

Movement_count

:

3

Movement ....

Charles Tomlinson Griffes was an American composer who lived from 1884 to 1920. He was known for his impressionistic style and his use of exotic scales and harmonies. One of his most famous works is the Piano Sonata, A. 85, which he composed in 1917. The Piano Sonata, A. 85, premiered on January 23, 1918, at the Aeolian Hall in New York City. The sonata is divided into three movements: Allegro moderato, Molto adagio, and Allegro con spirito. The first movement is in sonata form and features a lively and energetic theme that is developed throughout the movement. The second movement is a slow and melancholy adagio that showcases Griffes' ability to create beautiful and haunting melodies. The final movement is a lively and playful allegro that brings the sonata to a thrilling conclusion. One of the characteristics of the Piano Sonata, A. 85, is Griffes' use of exotic scales and harmonies. He was influenced by the music of Debussy and Ravel, and he incorporated elements of Eastern music into his compositions. In the first movement of the sonata, for example, he uses a pentatonic scale that gives the music a distinctly Asian flavor. In the second movement, he uses a whole-tone scale to create a dreamy and otherworldly atmosphere. Another characteristic of the Piano Sonata, A. 85, is Griffes' use of impressionistic techniques. He was interested in creating music that evoked moods and emotions rather than telling a specific story. He used techniques such as chromaticism, pedal points, and parallel chords to create a sense of ambiguity and mystery in his music. Overall, the Piano Sonata, A. 85, is a masterpiece of American impressionism. It showcases Griffes' unique style and his ability to create music that is both beautiful and evocative. It remains a popular work among pianists and audiences alike, and it continues to be studied and performed today.

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