Ernst von Dohnányi ： Ancient Suite Op.24

Dohnányi’s Ancient Suite Op.24 draws on the dances and formal sense associated with the Baroque while incorporating modern piano writing and rich harmonies. It progresses from a Prelude through a Gavotte, Minuet, Sarabande, and Finale, with the contrasting character of each movement and the overall flow providing its central appeal. Ornaments and detailed phrases should be played with lightness and clarity, while the slower movements call for careful shaping of the inner voices and musical breathing. In the Finale, maintaining rhythmic momentum while keeping the layers of sound well balanced prevents the brilliance from becoming excessive, allowing both the antique character and Dohnányi’s characteristic richness to emerge.