Composer

:

Rudolf Ganz

Genre

:

Keyboard

Average_duration

:

05:23

Movement_count

:

2

Movement ....

Rudolf Ganz, a Swiss-American composer, pianist, and conductor, composed 'Pieces (2) for piano, Op. 31' in 1918. The piece premiered in the same year in Chicago, Illinois, and was published by G. Schirmer, Inc. The two movements of the piece are titled 'Prelude' and 'Toccata.' The first movement, 'Prelude,' is marked 'Andante con moto' and is in the key of E-flat major. It begins with a lyrical melody in the right hand, accompanied by arpeggiated chords in the left hand. The melody is then repeated with variations, and the left hand takes over the melody while the right hand plays a descending chromatic line. The movement ends with a return to the original melody, played softly. The second movement, 'Toccata,' is marked 'Allegro con fuoco' and is in the key of E minor. It is a virtuosic piece that showcases the pianist's technical abilities. The movement begins with a fast and rhythmic theme in the right hand, accompanied by chords in the left hand. The theme is then repeated with variations, and the left hand takes over the theme while the right hand plays a descending chromatic line. The movement builds to a climax with fast and intricate runs in both hands, and ends with a final flourish. Overall, 'Pieces (2) for piano, Op. 31' is a challenging and expressive work that demonstrates Ganz's skill as a composer and pianist. The contrasting moods and technical demands of the two movements make it a popular choice for pianists looking to showcase their abilities.

More....