Thompson, John Sylvanus : Concerto Americana for two pianos
Work Overview
First Publisher:Willis Music
Instrumentation:Piano Ensemble
Genre:Various works
Total Playing Time:9 min 00 sec
Commentary (1)
Author : Nishihara, Masaki
Last Updated: December 24, 2021
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Author : Nishihara, Masaki
This is an original work for two pianos, suitable for learners. Although titled "Concerto," it is not a concerto for piano and orchestra. The level is approximately Czerny 30. It begins surprisingly with a quotation from the opening melody of Tchaikovsky's Piano Concerto, but thereafter, as Thompson himself explains, it is intended to practically teach the concerto form using American folk songs and popular tunes as material. Despite its stated educational purpose, it lacks stiffness and can be enjoyed casually. It avoids eccentricity, and within its orthodox and swift musical progression, one can feel a refined modernity. Although the First Piano is somewhat treated as a soloist, playing short cadenzas, overall, both parts are given a balanced prominence, allowing the performers to feel like accomplished pianists, which is also a positive aspect. Popular melodies that have permeated our daily lives, such as telephone hold music and commercial jingles, are fashioned stylishly without becoming trite. It is likely to become a popular repertoire for recitals.
Movement 1: Down South
4/4 time, opening Andante moderato, main section Allegro molto, C major. Features "Dixie" (American popular song) and "Arkansas Traveler" (former state song of Arkansas).
Movement 2: Out West
3/4 time, Andante moderato, G major. Features "Home on the Range" (American folk song) and "Good-bye, Old Paint" (cowboy song).
Movement 3: Back East
6/8 time, Molto Allegro, C major. Features "Battle Hymn of the Republic" (American patriotic song) and "Yale Boola Song" (Yale University football fight song).