Dmitri Borisovich Kabalevsky ： Rhapsody on the Theme of the Song “School Years” Op.75

Centered on the theme of the song “School Years,” this concerto-like rhapsody unfolds through a dialogue between solo piano and orchestra. Beginning with a presentation of the theme, it moves through contrasting sections, juxtaposing lively, forward-driving passages with lyrical, songful episodes. A particular highlight is the way the theme is transformed to generate a growing sense of excitement and carry the music toward a broad climax. In performance, the melody should be brought clearly to the fore, while attention is also needed to the crispness of the rapid figures and to the balance of volume and color with the orchestra. Convincingly shifting the character from one passage to the next, while preserving a natural singing quality amid the brilliance, is essential.