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The first movement of this instantly recognisable piano sonata starts off quietly to set a calm, delicate and slightly melancholic tone. As the emotions rise and fall, the intensity swells and diminishes gracefully. The Piano Sonata No. 14 op. 27 no. 2 in C sharp minor by Ludwig van Beethoven, completed in 1801, is also known as the Moonlight Sonata. Beethoven himself gave his work the nickname Sonata quasi una Fantasia ("... quasi a fantasy"). The term "Fantasia" refers to the unusual sequence of movements of the sonata. This explains the untypical tempos of the respective movements for the conventional sonata form. The work does not have a first (fast) movement in sonata form, which sonatas of this period usually contain. It begins with an Adagio, followed by a more lively Allegretto with Trio, followed by a fast, highly dramatic Finale, which has the structure of a sonata-form. What is striking here is that the tempo increases from movement to movement. Franz Liszt characterized the piece by describing the second movement as "a flower between two abysses".
A fast, dramatic and energetic end to the famous Moonlight Sonata. The third movement moves along at a great pace, (presto agitato - which means fast, in a hurry and agitated). The pianist gives a fantastic rendition of this high tempo work. The Piano Sonata No. 14 op. 27 no. 2 in C sharp minor by Ludwig van Beethoven, completed in 1801, is also known as the Moonlight Sonata. Beethoven himself gave his work the nickname Sonata quasi una Fantasia ("... quasi a fantasy"). The term "Fantasia" refers to the unusual sequence of movements of the sonata. This explains the untypical tempos of the respective movements for the conventional sonata form. The work does not have a first (fast) movement in sonata form, which sonatas of this period usually contain. It begins with an Adagio, followed by a more lively Allegretto with Trio, followed by a fast, highly dramatic Finale, which has the structure of a sonata-form. What is striking here is that the tempo increases from movement to movement. Franz Liszt characterized the piece by describing the second movement as "a flower between two abysses".
A beautiful, flowing introduction leads us into a magical fantasy. Sweet and tender, this is the first of Debussy's 'Deux Arabesques'. Written in E major and played at a slow tempo it gives a regal, emotional tone. Widely used in popular culture such as in TV themes and advertising. It has also been sampled by Alicia Keys and used in the video game 'Final Fantasy V'.
Bristling with energy, this lively waltz for solo piano surges with huge confidence and presence. Requires great skill from the performer to keep up with the pace. Regarded by some as the first of Chopin's waltzes to be published.
Instantly recognisable, this beautiful work by Debussy is calm and soothing yet is intensely emotional in places. French for 'moonlight', this track is relaxing, reflective and simply delightful.
The second Gnossienne has the instruction, 'avec ?tonnement', (with astonishment), to instruct the player to play slightly faster than the other two pieces. Still has lots of space and freedom of expression.
One of sixteen waltzes by Brahms which shows a really soft and sentimental side. The dynamics don't change too much so it has a very peaceful approach to let the flowing melodies shine through.
The most famous of Liszt's Liebestraums. A popular melody which flows along with grace and elegance. Widely used in advertising, films and TV, this loving and emotional piece is perfect for giving an emotional and intense sensitivity to all projects and productions.
this is strident and morose with its block chords in a minor key.
Slow, ('Lent' in French), and free-flowing, this track evokes an almost daydream like state. This is the first of three works to be given the name Gnossienne name by Erik Satie to reflect this new style of composition.
One of Chopin's twenty four preludes which starts very quietly. A note repeats like the pitter-patter of raindrops. A more intense section rises like a heavy storm shower before fading away to leave us with the soft sound of the light raindrops again.
Bouncy, Playful, Sassy
Sad, Tinkling, Nostalgic
A waltz for solo piano which conjures up images of Paris and popular song around 1900. The title translates into, 'I Want You', and reflects the sentimental nature of the track. A wonderful backdrop for European productions.
A piano solo that starts peacefully and delicately before rising to an emotional crescendo, then dropping back to a serene finish. An atmospheric piece that showcases Chopin's mastery of the piano.
Deliberate, Ominous, Uncertain
One of the most famous pieces of music for solo piano. Despite having the instruction, 'Lent et douloureux', (slow and painfully), this track is referred to for calm, relaxing and meditative purposes. Atmospheric and ambient.
Slow and grave, ('Lent et grave'), the third Gymnopedie is perhaps the most heartbreaking. The whole ambience is punctuated by mournful melodies that have become so popular in modern productions.
The third in a series of highly expressive and free-flowing compositions by Satie is again at a slow pace like the first one. This gives the track a sombre and hypnotic quality. Creates an almost haunting atmosphere.
Gymnopedie No.2 has an aura of sombreness about it. 'Lent et triste', (slow and sad), is the instruction to the player. Very atmospheric with a feeling of calm resignation. Huge amounts of space in the composition for thoughtful reflection.
The first of Liszt's Liebestraums, (Dreams of love), is a delicate and tender piece. Always light and very spacious it sets the tone for the three works as a whole. Wonderful for romantic segments, weddings and nostalgic memories.
Beautiful melodies glide with effortless grace at the start of this famous Chopin piano solo. It becomes more intense before a soft ending. Used in many productions such as the James Bond film 'The Spy Who Loved Me'.