Composer

:

William Albright

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Rag

Average_duration

:

10:11

'Nightmare Fantasy Rag' is a solo piano composition by American composer William Albright. It was composed in 1969 and premiered by the composer himself in Ann Arbor, Michigan. The piece is divided into three movements and has a total duration of approximately 10 minutes. The first movement, titled "Nightmare," is characterized by dissonant harmonies and jagged rhythms that create a sense of unease and tension. The melody is fragmented and often interrupted by sudden bursts of chords, giving the impression of a restless and disturbed mind. The use of syncopation and irregular accents adds to the unsettling atmosphere of the piece. The second movement, "Fantasy," is a contrast to the first, with a more lyrical and flowing melody. The harmonies are still complex, but the rhythm is more regular and the mood is more introspective. The middle section of the movement features a series of arpeggios that gradually build in intensity, leading to a climactic section that reintroduces the dissonant harmonies from the first movement. The final movement, "Rag," is a nod to the traditional ragtime style of piano music. However, Albright's version is far from traditional, with unexpected harmonies and rhythms that subvert the listener's expectations. The melody is fragmented and often interrupted by syncopated chords, creating a sense of playfulness and unpredictability. Overall, 'Nightmare Fantasy Rag' is a challenging and complex piece that showcases Albright's unique style and innovative approach to piano composition. The use of dissonant harmonies, irregular rhythms, and unexpected accents creates a sense of tension and unease that is balanced by moments of lyricism and playfulness.

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