Composer

:

Pyotr Il'yich Tchaikovsky

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Character Piece

Compose Date

:

1878

Average_duration

:

42:30

Movement_count

:

12

Movement ....

Pyotr Il'yich Tchaikovsky's 'Douze morceaux, pieces (12), Op. 40' is a collection of twelve piano pieces that were composed in 1878. The pieces were premiered in Moscow on November 22, 1878, by the composer himself. The collection is divided into two parts, with six pieces in each part. The first part of the collection begins with a piece titled "Nocturne," which is a slow and melancholic piece that sets the tone for the rest of the collection. The second piece, "Scherzo," is a lively and playful piece that contrasts with the first piece. The third piece, "Chanson triste," is a sad and mournful piece that features a beautiful melody. The fourth piece, "Marche funèbre," is a funeral march that is somber and solemn. The fifth piece, "Mazurka," is a lively and energetic dance that is characteristic of Polish folk music. The sixth and final piece in the first part is "Reverie du soir," which is a dreamy and introspective piece that brings the first part of the collection to a close. The second part of the collection begins with "Valse," which is a graceful and elegant waltz that is reminiscent of the Viennese waltz. The second piece, "Impromptu," is a free-flowing and improvisational piece that is full of surprises. The third piece, "Elégie," is a mournful and melancholic piece that is similar in mood to the third piece in the first part. The fourth piece, "Barcarolle," is a gentle and flowing piece that is inspired by the rhythm of a Venetian gondola. The fifth piece, "Toccatina," is a fast and virtuosic piece that showcases the pianist's technical abilities. The final piece in the collection is "Thème original et variations," which is a set of variations on a theme that is introduced at the beginning of the piece. Overall, 'Douze morceaux, pieces (12), Op. 40' is a collection of piano pieces that showcases Tchaikovsky's versatility as a composer. The collection features a range of moods and styles, from the somber and mournful to the lively and playful. The collection is also notable for its use of folk music elements, particularly in the Mazurka and Barcarolle. The collection is a testament to Tchaikovsky's skill as a composer and his ability to create music that is both technically challenging and emotionally expressive.

More....