Béla Bartók

Concerto for Orchestra, Sz. 116, BB 123

        Every great composer may be said to be unique, but Béla Bartók’s artistic position in the world of twentieth-century music stands apart. He was a Hungarian pianist and ethno-musicologist who also happened to compose, and as his career evolved he contributed some of the most esteemed and respected works to the standard repertoire. His was a musical style that was founded upon an intimate knowledge of the great styles and techniques of the past; a seminal appreciation of the possibilities of integrating the materials of Central European folk music into art music; and an uncommon elegance, restraint, and sophistication. His innovations in textures, colors, and structure laid the foundations for myriad others who followed.

Romanian Folk Dances, Sz. 68, BB 76

            Every great composer may be said to be unique, but Béla Bartók’s artistic position in the world of twentieth-century music stands apart.  He was a Hungarian pianist and ethno-musicologist who also happened to compose, and as his career evolved, he contributed some of the most esteemed and respected works to the standard repertoire.  His was a musical style that was founded upon an intimate knowledge of the great styles and techniques of the past; a seminal appreciation of the possibilities of integrating the materials of Central European folk music into art music; and an uncommon elegance, restraint, and sophistication.  His innovations in textures, harmonies, colors, and structure laid the foundations for myriad others who followed.

Suite from The Miraculous Mandarin, op. 19

            Every great composer may be said to be unique, but Béla Bartók’s artistic position in the world of twentieth-century music stands apart.  He was a Hungarian pianist and ethno-musicologist who also happened to compose, and as his career evolved he contributed some of the most esteemed and respected works to the standard repertoire.  His was a musical style that was founded upon an intimate knowledge of the great styles and techniques of the past; a seminal appreciation of the possibilities of integrating the materials of Central European folk music into art music; and an uncommon elegance, restraint, and sophistication.  His innovations in textures, colors, and structure laid the foundations for myriad others who followed.