Composer

:

Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Rondo

Compose Date

:

1780

Publication Date

:

1781

Average_duration

:

5:08

Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach's Rondo No. 2 in G major, H. 271, Wq. 57/3 is a solo keyboard piece composed in the mid-1760s. It is part of a set of six rondos that Bach composed for his own use and enjoyment. The Rondo No. 2 is the most famous of the set and is often performed in recitals and competitions. The Rondo No. 2 is in G major and is written in a lively and playful style. It is a one-movement piece that is structured in a rondo form, which means that the main theme (the "refrain") is repeated several times throughout the piece, with different episodes (the "couplets") in between. The piece is relatively short, lasting only about three minutes. The Rondo No. 2 is characterized by its virtuosic keyboard writing, with fast runs, trills, and arpeggios that showcase the performer's technical abilities. The piece also features sudden dynamic changes and unexpected harmonic shifts, which add to its playful and whimsical character. The Rondo No. 2 was first published in 1766 as part of Bach's "Six Keyboard Sonatas with Various Pieces." It was likely composed for Bach's own use, as he was known to enjoy playing his own compositions in private. The piece was not widely known or performed until the 20th century, when it became a popular choice for pianists and harpsichordists. Overall, the Rondo No. 2 in G major is a charming and delightful piece that showcases Bach's skill as a composer and his love of keyboard music. Its playful character and virtuosic writing make it a favorite among performers and audiences alike.

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