Composer

:

Edmund Rubbra

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Fugue

Compose Date

:

1950

Average_duration

:

4:37

Edmund Rubbra's Prelude and Fugue for piano, Op. 69, was composed in 1952 and premiered the same year by pianist Denis Matthews. The work is divided into two movements, with the Prelude being marked "Allegro moderato" and the Fugue being marked "Allegro con fuoco." The Prelude begins with a lively and rhythmic theme that is developed throughout the movement. Rubbra employs a variety of textures and harmonies, including a section with a more lyrical melody and a section with a driving ostinato. The movement ends with a return to the opening theme, but with a more subdued and introspective character. The Fugue is a more complex and intricate movement, with a subject that is introduced in the bass and then passed between the hands of the pianist. Rubbra uses a variety of contrapuntal techniques, including inversion and stretto, to create a dense and intricate texture. The movement builds to a climax before resolving in a quiet and introspective coda. Overall, Rubbra's Prelude and Fugue for piano, Op. 69, is a masterful example of his skill as a composer and his deep understanding of the piano as an instrument. The work showcases his ability to create complex and intricate textures while maintaining a sense of clarity and coherence.

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