Composer

:

Mily Balakirev

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Scherzo

Compose Date

:

1900

Publication Date

:

1900

Average_duration

:

8:00

Mily Balakirev's Scherzo for piano No. 2 in B flat minor was composed in 1859 and premiered the same year in St. Petersburg. The piece is in three movements and has a total duration of approximately 10 minutes. The first movement is marked Allegro agitato and is in B flat minor. It begins with a fast and energetic theme played by the right hand, accompanied by a driving rhythm in the left hand. The theme is then developed and expanded upon, with the left hand taking on a more prominent role. The middle section of the movement is in B major and features a more lyrical and expressive melody. The movement ends with a return to the opening theme, played with even greater intensity. The second movement is marked Andante and is in G flat major. It is a lyrical and expressive interlude, providing a contrast to the frenetic energy of the first and third movements. The melody is played in the right hand, accompanied by a simple and understated accompaniment in the left hand. The third movement is marked Presto and is in B flat minor. It is a fast and virtuosic scherzo, featuring rapid runs and arpeggios in both hands. The main theme is a lively and playful melody, which is developed and expanded upon throughout the movement. The middle section of the movement is in B major and features a more subdued and introspective melody. The movement ends with a return to the opening theme, played with even greater speed and virtuosity. Overall, Balakirev's Scherzo for piano No. 2 in B flat minor is a technically demanding and musically complex work. It showcases Balakirev's skill as a composer and pianist, as well as his ability to create music that is both expressive and exciting.

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