Khachaturian, Aram : Toccata
Work Overview
Publication Year:1938
First Publisher:Muzgiz
Instrumentation:Piano Solo
Genre:toccata
Total Playing Time:4 min 00 sec
Copyright:Under Copyright Protection
Commentary (1)
Author : Ooi, Kazurou
Last Updated: March 12, 2018
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Author : Ooi, Kazurou
Performing this piece requires special techniques. Strong fingers and a wrist capable of rapid repetitions are necessary, making sectional practice indispensable. Khachaturian's music has strong instrumental elements; therefore, the tempo should not be arbitrarily altered during the piece. It is necessary to maintain a consistent tempo unless specific instructions indicate otherwise. A typical example of a common mistake is to slow down the tempo in difficult passages and speed up in easier ones. Indeed, to be a Toccata, it demands a certain level of technical proficiency.
Measures 1-39
From the beginning of measure 5, diligent practice of the left-hand repetitions is already required. Repetitions gradually improve with practice. Do not give up. Another challenging passage within measures 1-39 is measures 21-23. This also requires repetitions at the indicated tempo. Furthermore, in measures 1-39, the "clarity of the music," including pedaling, is crucial. Avoid excessive use of the pedal, which can obscure the individual notes and result in a muddy sound.
- Measures 5-8: Use the pedal sparingly or change it frequently.
- Measures 9-12: Pedal once every two beats.
- Measures 13-20: Almost no pedal is needed.
- Measures 26-35: Similarly, no pedal is needed.
In measures 1-39, maintain a single tempo and never slow down.
Measures 40 onwards
From measure 40 onwards, there are alternating single-note repetitions between the left and right hands. Ensure that the triplets are heard clearly. In this section, although detailed dynamic markings are not written, in the author's personal opinion, a crescendo should be applied from measure 47, aiming towards measure 60, and then the dynamic level should be reduced at measure 61. From measure 67, apply a crescendo again, reaching measure 71. Measures 73-75: Absolutely no pedal is needed. The following passages are similar until the B section, so they will be omitted.
B Section (Measures 108 onwards)
The B section, starting from measure 108, requires a romantic, lyrical quality, a stark contrast to the preceding sections. At measure 111, the clash of notes between the right and left hands on the third beat can be interpreted as a shock from a cruel confession. Do not play it lightly. In this section, prioritize the melody and feel free to apply rubato. Measures 114-117: Only the right-hand thumb notes should be clearly articulated; the rest should be played pp. In the right-hand melody, measures 115, beats 3-4, are for resonance. Do not play them loudly. Measures 163-165: This is a very dramatic ending. Play it freely, like a cadenza.
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