Scherzo in A-flat major (Borodin)


's Scherzo in A-flat major is a lively piece written in 1885, while Borodin was in Belgium for an early performance of his then incomplete opera Prince Igor. It was originally written for solo piano but in 1889 Alexander Glazunov orchestrated it, along with the Petite Suite. Borodin dedicated the piece to Théodore Jadoul, who made a four-hand piano arrangement of it.

Style

The Scherzo can be recognized as one of Borodin's compositions instantaneously because of its bright tone, pounding rhythms and exciting melodies. In the main theme of the piece a constant rhythm is used, giving it a clear beat, but unfortunately this also makes it very challenging for the pianist due to the constant jumps required. The piece often modulates, making it more interesting and varied. Played at correct speed, the piece only lasts around three minutes. However this "miniature" offers an admirable summary of its composer's style.

Recordings

The following pianists have recorded the piece:
PianistDurationRecord LabelRecording Date
Vladimir Ashkenazy02:48Philips Records1983
Margaret Fingerhut02:58Chandos Records1985
Philip Edward Fisher03:22Chandos Records2011
Roberto Giordano03:12Cypress Records2004
Dirk Joeres02:59Largo Records1986
Vladimir Leyetchkiss03:15Centaur Records1991
Sergei Rachmaninoff02:57RCA Victor1935
Marco Rapetti03:21Brilliant Classics2008
Victor Ryabchikov03:04Olympia Records1999
Joseph Villa02:49Dante Records1980

Orchestration

In 1889, just two years after Borodin's Death, Alexander Glazunov orchestrated the Petite Suite. Glazunov's orchestration of the Suite makes the 7th movement the Scherzo, with the Nocturne inserted inside it as a trio section. The total length of the movement is around eight minutes.