Composer

:

César Cui

Genre

:

Orchestral

Style

:

Orchestral

Compose Date

:

1886

César Cui's 'Morceaux (2), Op. 36' is a set of two pieces for solo piano. The pieces were composed in 1886 and premiered in the same year. The two movements are titled 'Nocturne' and 'Tarentelle'. The first movement, 'Nocturne', is a slow and lyrical piece that is characterized by its expressive melody and delicate accompaniment. The piece is in the key of E-flat major and is marked 'Andante cantabile'. The melody is introduced in the right hand and is accompanied by a simple arpeggiated figure in the left hand. The melody is then developed and expanded upon, with the left hand providing a more complex accompaniment. The piece ends with a gentle coda that brings the melody to a peaceful close. The second movement, 'Tarentelle', is a fast and lively piece that is characterized by its energetic rhythm and virtuosic passages. The piece is in the key of A minor and is marked 'Allegro vivace'. The piece begins with a driving rhythm in the left hand, which is then joined by a lively melody in the right hand. The melody is developed and expanded upon, with the left hand providing a more complex accompaniment. The piece then moves into a more virtuosic section, with rapid runs and arpeggios in both hands. The piece ends with a frenzied coda that brings the piece to an exciting close. Overall, 'Morceaux (2), Op. 36' is a set of two contrasting pieces that showcase Cui's skill as a composer for the piano. The first movement is a lyrical and expressive piece, while the second movement is a fast and virtuosic piece. Both pieces are characterized by their strong melodies and intricate accompaniments, and they demonstrate Cui's ability to write music that is both technically challenging and musically satisfying.

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