Piano Duet

Summary

A piano duet is a chamber ensemble consisting of two pianists playing on a single piano. This configuration allows for a wide range of musical expressions and styles, as the two pianists must coordinate closely to perform intricate and harmonious pieces. The repertoire for a Piano Duet spans from classical compositions to contemporary works, providing ample opportunities for creative and dynamic interplay between the two performers.

Instrumentation

1 Piano (2 players)

Notable Works for Piano Duet

• Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart: Sonata in D Major, K. 381 (1772)

  • Early classical work demonstrating elegant interplay between performers.

• Franz Schubert: Fantasia in F Minor, D. 940 (1828)

  • Masterwork of the piano duet repertoire, known for its emotional depth.

• Johannes Brahms: Hungarian Dances (1869)

  • Popular collection of folk-inspired dances originally written for piano duet.

• Georges Bizet: Jeux d'enfants (Children's Games), Op. 22 (1871)

  • Charming suite depicting various children's activities.

• Maurice Ravel: Ma mère l'Oye (Mother Goose Suite) (1910)

  • Delicate suite based on fairy tales, originally composed for piano duet.

• Igor Stravinsky: Three Easy Pieces (1915)

  • Pedagogical work showcasing modern compositional techniques.

• Francis Poulenc: Sonata for Piano Four Hands (1918)

  • Neoclassical work with wit and charm.

• Samuel Barber: Souvenirs, Op. 28 (1952)

  • Suite of dance movements reflecting various ballroom styles.

• György Kurtág: Játékok (Games) (1973-2017)

  • Contemporary collection of pedagogical pieces exploring modern techniques.

• John Adams: Hallelujah Junction (1996)

  • Minimalist work featuring intricate rhythmic patterns.

Sources

• Hinson, M. (2000). Guide to the Pianist's Repertoire. Indiana University Press.

• Ferguson, H. (1995). Keyboard Duets from the 16th to the 20th Century. Oxford University Press.

• McGraw, C. (1981). Piano Duet Repertoire: Music Originally Written for One Piano, Four Hands. Indiana University Press.

• Lubin, E. (1970). The Piano Duet: A Guide for Pianists. Grossman Publishers.

• Moldenhauer, H. (1950). Duo-Pianism: A Dissertation. Chicago Musical College Press.

• Grove Music Online - Oxford Music Dictionary

• IMSLP (International Music Score Library Project)

• The Cambridge Companion to the Piano