Composer

:

Sergey Rachmaninov

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Song: Art Song

Compose Date

:

1902

Average_duration

:

3:14

Melody, Op. 21/9 is a solo piano piece composed by Sergey Rachmaninov in 1901. It was premiered in Moscow on December 17, 1901, by the composer himself. The piece is part of a set of ten pieces for piano, collectively known as the Morceaux de fantaisie, Op. 3. Melody, Op. 21/9 is a slow and lyrical piece, with a simple and elegant melody that is accompanied by a delicate and flowing accompaniment. The piece is in the key of E major and is written in a ternary form, with a central section that contrasts with the outer sections. The first section of the piece begins with a simple and graceful melody that is played in the right hand, accompanied by a gentle and flowing arpeggio in the left hand. The melody is repeated several times, with slight variations and embellishments, before leading into the central section of the piece. The central section of the piece is in the key of C-sharp minor and is marked by a change in tempo and mood. The melody becomes more intense and passionate, with a more complex and chromatic harmonic language. The left hand accompaniment becomes more rhythmic and percussive, adding to the dramatic effect of the section. After the central section, the piece returns to the opening melody, which is now played with greater intensity and passion. The accompaniment becomes more complex and virtuosic, with rapid arpeggios and cascading runs in both hands. The piece ends with a final flourish, bringing the melody to a triumphant close. Overall, Melody, Op. 21/9 is a beautiful and expressive piece that showcases Rachmaninov's gift for melody and his mastery of the piano. The piece is characterized by its simple and elegant melody, its flowing and delicate accompaniment, and its dramatic central section. It is a popular piece in the piano repertoire and is often performed in recitals and competitions.

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