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Home > Bartók, Béla > Mikrokosmos > 139. Jack-in-the-Box

Bartók, Béla : Mikrokosmos 139. Jack-in-the-Box

Work Overview

Music ID : 26074
Instrumentation:Piano Solo 
Genre:Educational works
Total Playing Time:0 min 53 sec
Copyright:Public Domain

Commentary (1)

Author : Ooi, Kazurou

Last Updated: May 15, 2023
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Note: This article is automatically translated from the original Japanese text. The author of the original work did not supervise this translation.

This piece is marked "Con moto" (with movement), "scherzando" (humorously), with a quarter note tempo of approximately 120, and "58 seconds" indicated at the end of the piece. If the piece is played too precisely, like with a metronome, the "Con moto" quality will be lost. It is likely that movement can be achieved by applying a slight tenuto to longer notes, specifically the quarter notes in this piece, taking a bit more time, while playing the sixteenth notes and eighth notes nimbly and lightly.

For example, let's examine measures 1-8. These eight measures contain four phrases: measures 1-2, 3-4, 5-6, and 7-8. Note that the final note of each phrase is a quarter note. Regarding timing, there are three units consisting of two sixteenth notes and one eighth note. Each of these units should be played swiftly and lightly, without heaviness. Play them with a light, flowing touch. Finally, you arrive at a quarter note chord; it is permissible to take a little extra time on this chord. It is advisable to compensate for the time gained by playing the units of two sixteenth notes and one eighth note quickly by taking ample time on the quarter note, thereby incorporating the previously accelerated time.

Next, let's consider the musical aspect. Vary the expression of these four phrases within measures 1-8. For instance, how do the first and second phrases differ? And isn't the third phrase more surprising? The fourth phrase conveys a sense of finality. In measure 8, it is acceptable to slightly broaden the tempo. In any case, these four phrases should not be played identically; rather, each should be given a distinct expression.

Similarly, ensure that the phrases in measures 24-25, 26-27, and 28-29 are all varied. It is acceptable to take a slight amount of time where appropriate; this will better convey the "Con moto" feeling.

Although it might initially feel like a piece to be played plainly, consider it a piece to be performed with freedom and humor.

Writer: Ooi, Kazurou