Product Description
Sonata for Piano, Op. 27 (2020) was composed out of a desire to convey complicated emotions, which I have dealt with in the past and deal with occasionally today, weighing on my heart. Minimalistic in nature and somewhat vague in form, the sonata gradually descends into madness.
The first movement, in C major, is based on the octatonic scale, a scale based on alternating half and whole steps, the tritone, and polytonal tendencies. The arpeggiated motive represents a calm state while the Ravel-esque and abrasive motives represent inner conflict. The arpeggiated motive is interrupted at first, by the Ravel-esque motive that seems to briefly distract the thought process. The main motive returns, only to be interrupted again by a more abrasive texture that has a firmer grip. This goes on for a while until it eventually returns to the main motive once more. However, the abrasive motive seems to have corrupted the calm state, which continues to linger well after the movement.
The second movement, in G minor, is based on overwhelming dark thoughts. Being in ternary form (ABA), there are two distinct sections, the dry and legato section. In the A sections, the dark thoughts hold on with a tight grip and no intention of letting go. The B section, the legato section, represents desperation to reassure that everything will be okay. When the A section returns once more, the dark thoughts establish that they are there to stay, ending with submission to these thoughts.
The third movement, in A minor, is based on duple vs. triple feel, with the mood representing a last attempt to retain hope despite feeling such defeat and unrelenting pain. The motive stays consistent with occasional and increasingly louder cries and prayers for help, only to continually be unheard. After several failed attempts, one final subdued prayer is called out. When all seems lost, the prayer is finally answered in a sudden moment of clarity, which represents remembering the positive things that have happened thus far and a reminder to keep moving forward. A recurring melody represents this faint yet encouraging answer to the prayer. Furthermore, this simple motive in A major, which remains unchanged in melodic structure, transforms and brings about more joy. In the epilogue of this journey, it is human nature to latch onto what brings us joy, which is represented by a recurring Beethoven-esque motive in the long, concluding section of this piece.
I. Andante sostenuto
II. Presto dolore
III. Lento solenne
Composed by: Tyler J. Holt
Published by: TJHoltMusic
Copyright © Tyler J. Holt, Composer
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