SERGEI RACHMANINOFF (1873 - 1943)
Prelude in D major, Op.23 No.4
Rachmaninoff composed this beautiful prelude in 1903, part of a set consisting of ten preludes (Op.23), while suffering from depression and financial woes. These preludes were often considered to be one of Rachmaninoff's best works for solo piano, exhibiting an unmistakable Russian quality. This particular prelude, as well as others, was dedicated to Alexander Siloti, who was his cousin and teacher. Unlike the usual short preludes composed by other composers such as Chopin, Rachmaninoff created his preludes slightly longer and they exhibit complex polyphonic forms and independent musical sections within each piece.
This particular prelude in D major, though perhaps less virtuosic than Rachmaninoff's usual works, is one of the most beautiful written. The piece begins by introducing the cantabile main theme distinctly on the right hand which simultaneously and seamlessly intertwines with the piano triplet left hand accompaniment. This lyrical tune hints of a tranquil but reminiscing heart. It then progresses into the first variation whereby a third triplet descant voice gently weaves in, and the theme shifts onto the right hand alto part, making the melody the middle voice. Second variation marks a rhythmic change where now the triplets are in the accompaniment line instead and right hand texture thickens with increasing chordal movements. It opens the way to a gradual strong push riding on a powerful crescendo build-up to an immense emotional fortissimo climax. The outcome is a third and also the last variation where the original main theme rhythm returns again, this time with a strong melancholic yearning. The melody sings the top voice of the right hand chords while the triplets return on the left hand, just as it was in the beginning. A high counterpoint on the right hand is also introduced into the main melody. This final repeat of the theme brings the music to a quiet but emotional ending.
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