Ferruccio Busoni ： Old Style Fantasia Op.33b-4

Busoni’s “Old Style Fantasia” is a short piano work that combines the refined character of music from an earlier era with the rich sonority of the instrument. Within a freely imaginative flow, the shaping of the melody and the changing harmonies are among its attractions. Clarifying the layers of sound and remaining aware of the role of each voice can make the music’s overall design easier to perceive. In performance, clear articulation that evokes an old-style character should be balanced with careful attention to phrase direction and breathing. Rather than forcing dynamic effects, shape them naturally while listening closely to changes in resonance; this brings out the work’s quiet dignity and dreamlike colors. Alongside technical accuracy, it is important to remain conscious of the contrast between refinement and freedom.