Composer

:

Alexander Glazunov

Genre

:

Concerto

Style

:

Concerto

Compose Date

:

1917

Average_duration

:

20:24

Movement_count

:

3

Movement ....

Alexander Glazunov's Piano Concerto No. 2 in B major, Op. 100, was composed in 1917 and premiered on January 23, 1918, in Petrograd (now St. Petersburg) with the composer himself conducting and the pianist Leopold Godowsky as the soloist. The concerto is in three movements and has a total duration of approximately 30 minutes. The first movement, marked Allegro moderato, begins with a majestic orchestral introduction that sets the tone for the entire concerto. The piano enters with a virtuosic solo passage that leads to the main theme, which is characterized by its lyrical and expressive qualities. The movement features a number of contrasting themes and moods, including a lively scherzo section and a tender and introspective second theme. The movement ends with a brilliant cadenza for the soloist, followed by a triumphant orchestral coda. The second movement, marked Andante sostenuto, is a lyrical and introspective interlude that provides a contrast to the exuberance of the first and third movements. The piano introduces a simple and haunting melody that is later taken up by the strings and developed into a richly harmonized and emotionally charged theme. The movement is notable for its delicate and nuanced orchestration, which allows the soloist to shine without overpowering the ensemble. The third movement, marked Allegro, is a lively and energetic finale that showcases the virtuosity of both the soloist and the orchestra. The movement is characterized by its rhythmic drive and exuberant melodies, which are developed and varied throughout the movement. The piano and orchestra engage in a lively dialogue, with the soloist often taking the lead in virtuosic passages and the orchestra responding with colorful and dynamic accompaniment. The movement ends with a brilliant and triumphant coda that brings the concerto to a thrilling conclusion. Overall, Glazunov's Piano Concerto No. 2 is a masterful work that combines virtuosity, lyricism, and emotional depth in equal measure. The concerto is notable for its rich and colorful orchestration, its inventive and varied themes, and its seamless integration of solo and ensemble passages. It remains a popular and frequently performed work in the piano concerto repertoire.

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