Composer

:

Sergey Rachmaninov

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Compose Date

:

1906

Average_duration

:

3:19

"A Passing Breeze, Op. 34/4" is a solo piano piece composed by Sergey Rachmaninov in 1911. It is part of his set of 13 preludes, Op. 34, which he composed between 1910 and 1913. The piece is in the key of D major and has a duration of approximately two minutes. The premiere of "A Passing Breeze" took place on December 10, 1911, in Moscow, with Rachmaninov himself performing the piece. The prelude is divided into three distinct sections, or movements, each with its own unique characteristics. The first movement begins with a gentle, flowing melody in the right hand, accompanied by a simple, repetitive pattern in the left hand. The melody gradually builds in intensity, with the left hand providing a more complex and varied accompaniment. The movement reaches a climax before subsiding into a quiet, reflective coda. The second movement is more lively and playful, with a syncopated rhythm and a jaunty melody in the right hand. The left hand provides a steady, driving accompaniment, and the overall effect is one of joyful exuberance. The final movement returns to the gentle, flowing melody of the first movement, but with a more complex and intricate accompaniment in the left hand. The melody is passed back and forth between the hands, building in intensity before reaching a final, peaceful resolution. Overall, "A Passing Breeze" is a beautiful and evocative piece of music, showcasing Rachmaninov's mastery of melody, harmony, and rhythm. Its three distinct movements provide a range of emotions and moods, from gentle reflection to joyful exuberance, making it a favorite among pianists and audiences alike.

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