Composer

:

Alexander Tcherepnin

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Prelude

Compose Date

:

1952 - 1953

Average_duration

:

27:40

Alexander Tcherepnin's "Preludes (12) for piano, Op. 85" is a collection of twelve short pieces for solo piano. The work was composed in 1943 and premiered in New York City in 1944. The twelve preludes are each relatively brief, with most lasting between one and two minutes. They are organized in a traditional manner, with each prelude in a different key, following the circle of fifths. The preludes are also arranged in pairs, with the first and second, third and fourth, and so on, sharing similar characteristics. The first prelude, in C major, is marked "Allegro con brio" and features a lively, rhythmic melody. The second prelude, in G major, is more subdued, with a flowing, lyrical melody. The third prelude, in D major, is marked "Allegro," and features a playful, staccato melody. The fourth prelude, in A major, is more contemplative, with a slower, more introspective melody. The fifth prelude, in E major, is marked "Allegro con fuoco," and features a fiery, virtuosic melody. The sixth prelude, in B major, is more subdued, with a gentle, flowing melody. The seventh prelude, in F-sharp major, is marked "Allegro," and features a lively, syncopated melody. The eighth prelude, in C-sharp major, is more introspective, with a slower, more contemplative melody. The ninth prelude, in G-sharp major, is marked "Allegro con brio," and features a lively, rhythmic melody. The tenth prelude, in E-flat major, is more subdued, with a gentle, flowing melody. The eleventh prelude, in B-flat major, is marked "Allegro," and features a lively, syncopated melody. The twelfth and final prelude, in F minor, is more introspective, with a slower, more contemplative melody. Overall, Tcherepnin's "Preludes (12) for piano, Op. 85" is a charming and accessible work that showcases the composer's skill at crafting short, memorable melodies. The preludes are well-suited for intermediate-level pianists, and are a popular choice for recitals and competitions.

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