Nikolai Kapustin ： Ten Bagatelles No.2 Op.59-2

No. 2 from Kapustin’s Ten Bagatelles is a miniature grounded in classical writing, with a lively rhythmic character reminiscent of jazz and sophisticated harmonic color. Within its compact span, the movement of the melody contrasts with the rhythmic drive, while subtle changes of expression carry the music forward. In performance, the syncopations within the beat should be felt precisely, while maintaining flexible accents so the playing does not become mechanical. It is also important to keep the left-hand motion light and bring the melody clearly to the foreground. Without rushing the tempo, performers should attend to the harmonic changes and the resonance of the sound, balancing buoyancy with expressive shading.