Teufelstanz (for piano)
Yvonne Freckmann
About this work:
“Teufelstanz” means “Devil’s Dance,” a title that I think befits its dark and twisted, yet enticing color, melodies and dances.
I completed “Teufelstanz” in January 2008. It began as a harmonic study that quickly turned into a piece. I explored the possibilities of a chord comprised of fourths, and thus the piece dances with quartal harmony. I used a Viennese 4th Chord, and decided on a sequence built on a whole tone scale. This sequence I presented in the opening four measures, repeated often and moved away from in the development, only to return to it at the closing. After the opening, the listener goes on a journey farther and farther away from the familiar and through several dances that teem with mystery, twists and turns.
Using a different and dissonant chord prompted me to use overall strong rhythm and dances, a “Twisted Tango” and Chord "Waltz" to make the music easier to take in and enjoy.
I would also like to dedicate my first piano composition to Mr. E.T. Page, Jr., who was like a grandfather to me. He died shortly before I started this project. His energy, love of life and people and his support of my music making is something I will treasure for the rest of my life.
Year composed: 2008
Duration: 00:09:00
Ensemble type: Keyboard:Piano
Instrumentation: 1 Piano