An original work for two pianos, four hands, completed on January 9, 1973, in Ann Arbor, Michigan. It is one of his early compositions for piano duo (the famous Recuerdos and The Garden of Eden were composed much later). The piece is dedicated to Theodor and Evelyn Jacobsen. The renowned astronomer Jacobsen possessed a deep understanding of music and excelled at two-piano performances with his wife, a pianist. The title is German, meaning "evening music." Unlike Nachtmusik, it evokes the early evening hours. The tempo is 4/4 time, quarter note = approximately 66-72, marked "leisurely, calm, with great smoothness and repose." The piece is entirely atonal, characterized by both parts simply layering dissonances alternately and irregularly. Devoid of extended techniques, it is remarkably approachable for a contemporary work. While adhering to a consistent compositional idiom, the work masterfully portrays a world where a rich palette of tonal colors shifts moment by moment, akin to ink bleeding, from sunset through a vibrant afterglow. His friend, who dedicated his life to astronomy and continuously challenged the mysteries of celestial bodies, was also a person who loved piano duos with equal passion. It was a wonderful coincidence that the composer had such a rare friend close by. Performers should deeply consider the significance of Bolcom's dedication of this work to the Jacobsens.