Classical Music | Piano Music

Recorded on 12/15/2010, uploaded on 05/12/2011

Musician's or Publisher's Notes

Moment Musicaux Op. 16, No. 1, Andantino

Sergei Rachmaninov finished his Moments Musicaux, op.16 in 1896. This set of solo piano pieces is a very mature example of an early piano work by the composer. The first piece is Andantino, the longest piece of the set, and it brings lyrical nocturne elements into a variation-like form. The following Allegretto represents a very wide range of dynamic contrasts and virtuoso passages that become a perfect tool for the creation of a musical drama. Andante cantabile is the philosophical climax of the set based on a genre of funeral march. The final Presto – one of the most famous piano pieces by Rachmaninov – displays much dramatic passion and intensity.    Stanislav Khristenko