Composer

:

Max Reger

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Fugue

Compose Date

:

1901

First Performance

:

Feb 20, 1902

Average_duration

:

19:43

Movement_count

:

2

Movement ....

Max Reger's 'Symphonic Fantasia and Fugue for organ, Op. 57 Inferno' was composed in 1901 and premiered on October 27th of the same year in the St. Paul's Church in Frankfurt. The piece is divided into three movements: Fantasia, Fugue, and Inferno. The Fantasia begins with a slow and mysterious introduction, which gradually builds up to a powerful and dramatic climax. The main theme is then introduced, which is characterized by its rhythmic complexity and chromaticism. The theme is developed throughout the movement, with various sections featuring different variations and transformations of the theme. The Fantasia ends with a grand and triumphant coda. The Fugue is a complex and intricate piece, featuring multiple themes and counter-themes. The main theme is introduced in the pedal, and is then taken up by the manuals. The fugue is characterized by its dense and contrapuntal texture, with each voice weaving in and out of the others. The movement builds to a powerful climax, before gradually subsiding into a quiet and reflective coda. The final movement, Inferno, is a dramatic and intense piece, featuring a relentless and driving rhythm. The movement is characterized by its use of dissonance and chromaticism, which create a sense of tension and unease. The main theme is introduced in the pedal, and is then taken up by the manuals. The movement builds to a frenzied and chaotic climax, before abruptly ending on a dissonant chord. Overall, 'Symphonic Fantasia and Fugue for organ, Op. 57 Inferno' is a complex and challenging piece, requiring a high level of technical skill and musical understanding from the performer. The piece is characterized by its use of chromaticism, dissonance, and complex rhythms, which create a sense of tension and drama throughout. Despite its difficulty, the piece is widely regarded as one of Reger's most important works, and remains a popular choice for organists today.

More....