Dmitri Borisovich Kabalevsky ： 5 Pieces No.4 Op.14-4

No. 4 from Kabalevsky’s *5 Pieces* condenses a clear musical character into a concise span of time. The contours of the melody and the movement of the rhythm are among its attractions, while the compact structure allows subtle changes of expression through phrase direction and dynamics. In performance, it is important first to keep the pulse steady, coordinate the attacks, and preserve a crisp quality of articulation. At the same time, the melody should not sound mechanical: shaping each phrase toward its destination and balancing the inner parts and accompaniment so they do not obscure the melody will convey the work’s appeal more naturally. Avoid rushing the tempo, and give careful attention to the breathing between short figures.