Composer

:

Charles-Valentin Alkan

Genre

:

Chamber

Style

:

Sonata

Compose Date

:

Oct 21, 1856

Publication Date

:

1857

Average_duration

:

32:54

Movement_count

:

4

Movement ....

The 'Sonate de Concert in E major, Op. 47' is a piano sonata composed by Charles-Valentin Alkan in 1857. It premiered on January 12, 1858, at the Salle Pleyel in Paris, with Alkan himself as the performer. The sonata is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct characteristics. The first movement, marked Allegro molto alla Mendelssohn, is a lively and energetic piece that showcases Alkan's virtuosic piano writing. The movement begins with a fast and furious theme that is passed between the hands, before transitioning into a more lyrical second theme. The development section is particularly complex, with Alkan using a variety of techniques such as chromaticism and counterpoint to create a sense of tension and drama. The movement ends with a fiery coda that brings the piece to a thrilling conclusion. The second movement, marked Adagio, is a stark contrast to the first. It is a slow and introspective piece that is full of melancholy and longing. The movement begins with a simple and haunting melody that is repeated and developed throughout. Alkan's use of harmony in this movement is particularly striking, with unexpected chord progressions and dissonances adding to the overall sense of unease. The movement ends quietly, with the melody fading away into silence. The final movement, marked Allegretto alla barbaresca, is a playful and whimsical piece that draws on Eastern European folk music. The movement begins with a jaunty theme that is reminiscent of a traditional dance, before transitioning into a more lyrical second theme. Alkan's use of rhythm in this movement is particularly interesting, with irregular meters and syncopation adding to the overall sense of excitement. The movement ends with a fast and furious coda that brings the sonata to a thrilling conclusion. Overall, the 'Sonate de Concert in E major, Op. 47' is a complex and challenging piece that showcases Alkan's virtuosic piano writing and his mastery of a variety of musical styles. It is a testament to his skill as a composer and performer, and remains a beloved work in the piano repertoire to this day.

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