Composer

:

Serge Bortkiewicz

Genre

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Keyboard

Style

:

Keyboard

Average_duration

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5:03

Serge Bortkiewicz composed his "Consolation for piano in D flat major, Op. 17/4" in 1912. The piece is part of a set of six piano pieces, collectively known as "Six Morceaux, Op. 17." The "Consolation" is the fourth piece in the set and is considered one of Bortkiewicz's most popular compositions. The "Consolation" is a single-movement piece that is approximately five minutes in length. It is written in D flat major and is marked "Andante con moto." The piece begins with a simple, yet beautiful melody in the right hand, accompanied by a gentle arpeggio in the left hand. The melody is then repeated with slight variations, and the left hand accompaniment becomes more complex. The middle section of the piece features a more dramatic and passionate melody, with the left hand providing a more rhythmic accompaniment. This section builds in intensity before returning to the original melody, which is now played with more ornamentation and embellishments. The "Consolation" is characterized by its lush harmonies, lyrical melodies, and expressive phrasing. It is a romantic piece that showcases Bortkiewicz's skill as a composer and pianist. The piece has been described as "a balm for the soul" and is often played at funerals and other solemn occasions. The "Consolation" premiered in 1912 and has since been performed by many notable pianists, including Vladimir Horowitz and Sviatoslav Richter. It remains a popular piece in the piano repertoire and is often used as a teaching tool for intermediate-level pianists.

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