Composer

:

Felix Mendelssohn

Genre

:

Concerto

Style

:

Capriccio

Compose Date

:

May 18, 1832

Publication Date

:

1862

First Performance

:

May 25, 1832

Average_duration

:

11:04

Capriccio brillant in B minor, Op. 22 is a composition for piano and orchestra by Felix Mendelssohn. It was composed in 1832 and premiered on March 24, 1833, in Leipzig, Germany. The piece consists of a single movement and has a duration of approximately 10 minutes. The Capriccio brillant is characterized by its virtuosic piano writing and lively orchestration. The piece begins with a brief orchestral introduction, which sets the stage for the piano's entrance. The piano then launches into a series of rapid arpeggios and scales, which are interspersed with lyrical melodies. The orchestra provides a colorful accompaniment, with the strings and woodwinds adding a playful, dance-like quality to the music. The middle section of the Capriccio brillant features a slower, more introspective theme, which is introduced by the piano. This theme is then developed by the orchestra, with the strings and woodwinds taking turns playing the melody. The piano eventually returns with a virtuosic cadenza, which leads into the final section of the piece. The final section of the Capriccio brillant is characterized by its lively, energetic rhythms and playful melodies. The piano and orchestra engage in a lively dialogue, with each taking turns playing the main theme. The piece ends with a flourish, as the piano and orchestra come together for a final, triumphant statement of the main theme. Overall, the Capriccio brillant is a lively and engaging work, which showcases Mendelssohn's skill as both a composer and a pianist. Its virtuosic piano writing and colorful orchestration make it a popular choice for concert performances and recordings.

More....