Charles-Valentin Alkan - Etude Op. 39 No. 2 "En rythme molossique" video free download

En rhythme molossique (In molossian rhythm) is the second of the Études in the minor keys, Op. 39 for solo piano by the French composer Charles-Valentin Alkan, published in 1846. It is in D minor. The piece is in rondo form, with two episodes, and is mostly driven by the rhythm (one quarter note, two beamed eighth notes, two beamed eighth notes). Ronald Smith compares the theme, involving loud octaves in canon, to the minuet from Joseph Haydn's string quartet, Op. 76 No. 2.

The first episode is lighter in mood, but the rhythm is still pervasive. In the second episode, the rhythm dissolves into a crotchet followed by a minim, and flowing semiquavers appear throughout. The original theme returns only after the second episode concludes, in double counterpoint with the second episode, and the climax then occurs with both episodes being combined. Finally, the flowing semiquavers of the second episode reappear once more in the coda in D major, with the rhythm being repeated over and over again in the bass, and the work ends, referencing Beethoven's "Tempest" sonata, also in D minor.

Kaikhosru Shapurji Sorabji considered this piece to be one the 'most original' of the op. 39 set, 'the dour, harsh, heavy brutality of the rhythm is magnificently expressed.' (Wikipedia)

I would like to take note that the audio AND the sheet music ARE NOT mine.Change the quality to 480p if the video is blurry.

Performance by: Jack Gibbons