Composer

:

Edvard Grieg

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Waltz

Compose Date

:

1866

Publication Date

:

1884

Average_duration

:

1:20

Edvard Grieg's Waltz, Op. 38/7, also known as "Valse-Impromptu," was composed in 1880. It premiered on March 22, 1881, in Copenhagen, Denmark, with Grieg himself at the piano. The piece is part of a set of eight piano pieces collectively known as "Lyric Pieces," which Grieg composed between 1867 and 1901. The Waltz, Op. 38/7, is a single-movement piece in the key of E major and has a moderate tempo. The piece is characterized by its flowing, lilting melody and its use of waltz rhythms. The opening theme is introduced by the right hand and is then repeated with variations throughout the piece. The left hand provides a steady accompaniment with broken chords and arpeggios. The piece is notable for its use of chromaticism, which adds a sense of tension and drama to the otherwise light and playful melody. The middle section of the piece features a more melancholic melody in the key of C-sharp minor, which provides a contrast to the joyful waltz theme. The piece then returns to the original theme, which is played with increasing intensity before coming to a gentle close. Overall, Grieg's Waltz, Op. 38/7, is a charming and elegant piece that showcases the composer's skill in creating memorable melodies and using harmonic and rhythmic devices to create interest and variety. It remains a popular piece in the piano repertoire and is often performed in recitals and concerts.

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