Composer

:

Louis Moreau Gottschalk

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Waltz

Compose Date

:

1859 - 1864

Publication Date

:

1865

Average_duration

:

5:21

Radieuse, concert for piano, 4 hands, Op. 72, RO 217 is a composition by the American composer and pianist Louis Moreau Gottschalk. It was composed in 1865 and premiered on January 22, 1866, in New York City. The piece consists of three movements and has a total duration of approximately 20 minutes. The first movement, marked Allegro moderato, is characterized by its lively and energetic rhythms. The piano parts are often syncopated, creating a sense of tension and excitement. The melody is bright and cheerful, with a distinctly Latin American flavor. The movement is structured in a traditional sonata form, with a lively exposition, a lyrical development section, and a triumphant recapitulation. The second movement, marked Andante, is a beautiful and lyrical piece. The melody is simple and elegant, with a gentle accompaniment in the second piano part. The movement is in ternary form, with a central section that features a more complex and virtuosic piano writing. The overall mood of the movement is peaceful and contemplative. The final movement, marked Allegro con fuoco, is a fiery and virtuosic tour de force. The piano parts are highly syncopated and feature rapid runs and arpeggios. The melody is bold and triumphant, with a distinctly American character. The movement is structured in a rondo form, with a recurring main theme that is interspersed with contrasting episodes. The coda is particularly exciting, with both pianists playing rapid runs and trills. Overall, Radieuse is a highly virtuosic and exciting piece of music. It showcases Gottschalk's unique blend of European classical music and Latin American rhythms, as well as his exceptional piano writing skills. The piece is a testament to Gottschalk's status as one of the most important American composers of the 19th century.

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