Composer

:

Mily Balakirev

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Fantasy

Compose Date

:

1869

Publication Date

:

1870

Average_duration

:

8:47

"Islamey" is a virtuosic piano piece composed by Mily Balakirev in 1869. It premiered on December 12, 1869, in St. Petersburg, Russia, performed by the composer himself. The piece is known for its technical difficulty and exoticism, as it is inspired by the music of the Caucasus region. "Islamey" is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct character. The first movement, marked "Allegro agitato," is a fast and frenzied dance in 2/4 time. It begins with a series of rapid arpeggios and trills, followed by a melody that is repeated and developed throughout the movement. The middle section of the movement features a slower, more lyrical melody, before returning to the frenzied dance of the opening. The second movement, marked "Meno mosso," is a slower and more contemplative piece in 3/4 time. It begins with a simple melody in the right hand, accompanied by a rolling left-hand figure. The melody is then repeated and developed, with the left-hand accompaniment becoming more complex. The middle section of the movement features a series of rapid arpeggios and trills, before returning to the opening melody. The third movement, marked "Presto," is a fast and furious dance in 2/4 time. It begins with a series of rapid octaves in the right hand, accompanied by a rolling left-hand figure. The melody is then introduced in the right hand, with the left hand providing a driving accompaniment. The middle section of the movement features a slower, more lyrical melody, before returning to the frenzied dance of the opening. "Islamey" is known for its technical difficulty, with its rapid arpeggios, trills, and octave passages requiring great skill and dexterity from the performer. It is also known for its exoticism, with its use of Eastern scales and rhythms, and its evocation of the music of the Caucasus region. The piece has become a staple of the piano repertoire, and is often performed in piano competitions and recitals.

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