Composer

:

Alexander Scriabin

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Etude

Compose Date

:

1903

Average_duration

:

3:13

Alexander Scriabin's 'Etude for piano in C sharp minor, Op. 42/5' is a solo piano piece that was composed in 1903. It was premiered by the composer himself in Moscow on December 12, 1903. The piece is part of a set of twelve etudes that Scriabin composed between 1900 and 1904. The 'Etude for piano in C sharp minor, Op. 42/5' is a highly virtuosic piece that showcases Scriabin's unique harmonic language and his interest in mysticism and synesthesia. The piece is in a fast tempo and is marked "agitato" (agitated) and "con fuoco" (with fire). It is written in a modified sonata form, with a fast and energetic first section followed by a slower and more lyrical second section. The opening of the piece is marked by a series of rapid arpeggios that create a sense of urgency and tension. The main theme is then introduced, which is characterized by its chromaticism and use of dissonant harmonies. The theme is developed through a series of virtuosic passages that showcase the pianist's technical abilities. The second section of the piece is marked by a change in tempo and mood. It is more lyrical and introspective, with a melody that is characterized by its use of wide intervals and expressive phrasing. The section builds to a climax before returning to the opening material. Throughout the piece, Scriabin makes use of his trademark "mystic chord," a chord made up of a series of stacked fourths that he believed had mystical properties. He also makes use of unusual harmonies and chord progressions, creating a sense of tension and instability. Overall, the 'Etude for piano in C sharp minor, Op. 42/5' is a challenging and highly expressive piece that showcases Scriabin's unique style and his interest in mysticism and synesthesia. It remains a popular piece in the piano repertoire and is frequently performed by pianists around the world.

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