Presents
Max Reger
Piano Quartet No.2 in a minor, Op.133
Reger's Piano Quartet No.2 in a minor was composed some four years after his first in 1914. The opening movement, Allegro con passione, is melancholy and muted, creating a mournful effect with outbursts of emotion. The second movement, Vivace, is lighter and brighter scherzo with a mysterious sounding trio section. Next comes a Largo con gran espressione. The mood is somber and the music has a religious feel to it. The finale, Allegro con spirito, combines moments of sunshine with darker more brooding episodes.
Max Reger (1873-1916) was born in the small Bavarian town of Brand. He began his musical studies at a young age and his talent for composition became clear early on. His family expected him to become a school teacher like his father and to this end passed the necessary examinations for certification. However, before he landed his first teaching job, he met the eminent musicologist Hugo Riemann, who was so impressed by Reger’s talent that he urged him to devote himself entirely to music. Reger studied with him for nearly five years. By 1907 Reger was appointed to the prestigious position of Professor of composition at the Leipzig Conservatory. In addition to this he was widely regarded as one of the best living conductors and organists. In a career that only lasted 20 years, Reger wrote a prodigious amount of music in virtually every genre except opera and the symphony. Chamber music figures prominently within his oeuvre.
This work belongs in the concert hall but can be managed by experienced amateur players as well.
Parts: $34.95
