Piano Quartet

Victor Steinhardt

Level:

Piece length: 5'
Scored for: Piano, Violin, Viola, Cello

Victor Steinhardt's Piano Quartet in one movement is an intensely dramatic work with a wide dynamic and emotional range. Although the primary thematic material is characterized by the "Allegro energico" marked at the top, there are also lilting dance-like sections as well is passages of serene lyricism. It is about four and a half minutes in duration. The notation and musical style are typical of most 20th century music. The harmonic language is one that frequently exploits triadic structures but in
a tonally ambiguous manner. I have not asked the musicians to make any sounds other than those traditionally produced by their instruments.
The piece is intended for musicians whose abilities are at least moderately advanced, but not necessarily yet developed to their full
professional potential. While avoiding major technical obstacles, I managed to write in some elements that may stretch the musical skills of
the players. Because my harmonic style is quite chromatic, there may be some passages which present some intonation difficulty for the string
players. Attentive care is also needed for asymmetrical and changing meters, syncopations, and simultaneous conflicting hemiolas. Of course the ensemble will need to take special care with balance of voices, phrase-shaping, and contrasts of character.

Victor Steinhardt