Description

Piano Music Vol. 9
Scherzo op. 40 (4’) (1898)
Variations op. 85 (12’) (1901)
for two pianos
Furore Edition 10026
ISMN 979-0-50182-026-9
Sound Research of Women Composers: Twentieth Century (T 25)

Mel Bonis wrote two works for two pianos: Scherzo op. 40 and Variations op. 85.
Scherzo op. 40: Many themes characterise this delightful but nonetheless virtuosic work with a very romantic part, a type of song without words, sung by the first piano and accompanied by the second, featured by a small, virtuosic cadenza in the style of Chopin or Liszt.
Variations op. 85: The distribution across both pianos results in an orchestral whole. The composition of the work is intelligent and structured. It is simultaneously a lesson in composition, enjoyment for the performers and a delight for listeners. The theme is serious and solemn due to the classically harmonious character of the chords. This is followed by ten variations that should be played without a pause between them.