The Complete Well-Tempered Clavier, BWV 846-893, by Johann Sebastian Bach performed on piano by the award-winning concert pianist David-Ezra Okonsar.

Well-Tempered Keyboard: What It Is And What It Isn't

"The Well-Tempered Clavier, or Preludes and Fugues in all tones and semitones, in major as well as minor, for the benefit and use of musical youth desirous of knowledge as well as those who are already advanced in this study. For their especial diversion composed and prepared by Johann Sebastian Bach currently ducal Chapelmaster in Anhalt-Cöthen and director of chamber music in 1722.”
 
This text appeared as a preface to the First Edition of the First Book of the Well-Tempered Keyboard and has been a source of vehement discussions among scholars for many centuries.
 
The above paragraph is the most accurate and concise description of the Well-Tempered Keyboard, and I would like to comment shortly on it here.
 
"Well Tempered" refers to the tuning system developed by Andreas Werckmeister in 1691. In short, that tuning system, by shifting down the pure fifth intervals, thus modifying the pure harmonic ratios between sounds, permits one to compose and perform on all keys. A facility previously unavailable, only a range from all naturals (C major) up to keys with some three or four accidentals, was practically usable. "Clavier" means nothing else, but keyboard. Those pieces are then intended for keyboard without any specification.
 
That keyboard may be a Clavichord, Harpsichord, pipe organ, and from today"s point of view: piano and electronic keyboards. In other words, Well-Tempered Keyboard is to be played (if it is to be played at all) on any keyboard. Which keyboard with what sort of sounds is left to the performer"s discretion.
 
After that come a few interesting phrases: for the benefit and use of musical youth desirous of knowledge ("Lehrbegierigen Musicalischen Jugend”).
 
Here Bach points out, as in many of his published works, the pedagogical aspect of the Well-Tempered Keyboard. Here, as is expected at that time, musical education comprises performance and composition. He mentions those already advanced in this study ("in diesem studio schon habil seyenden”).
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read more: okonsar.com/46-WellTemperedClavier_second_edition.html

01 - Well Tempered Clavier I Prelude Fugue 1 C Maj BWV 846

The Novelettes (op.21) by Robert Schumann were composed in 1838. They are among his least-known works but are still considered masterpieces by many music scholars.

Each piece of the series is a gem of musical storytelling and displays Schumann's incredible talent for creating evocative melodies. For example, Schumann weaves a captivating narrative in the fourth Novelette through intricate piano passages and expressive melodies. The piece takes the listener on a journey of love and longing, with moments of tender introspection juxtaposed with passionate outbursts, showcasing Schumann's ability to evoke complex emotions through his music.

However, some critics argue that Schumann may have been skilled at creating melodies and evoking emotions, but his compositions lack structural coherence and can be overly sentimental. Many others admire his ability to create deeply emotional and captivating music that continues to resonate with audiences today.

The Novelettes are a prime example of Schumann's ability to connect with listeners on an emotional level. His use of rich harmonies and lyrical melodies in these pieces allows for a truly immersive and unforgettable musical experience.

For instance, in Novelette No. 1 in F Major, Schumann expertly weaves a series of melodic motifs that gradually build in intensity, creating a sense of anticipation and emotional tension. The piece then transitions into a sad and reflective section, where delicate piano passages evoke a deep sense of longing and nostalgia. This juxtaposition of contrasting emotions showcases Schumann's ability to evoke a wide range of feelings within a single composition.

The Sonata No. 2 in G minor op.22 by Robert Schumann is a masterpiece of Romantic piano music.

The form "Piano Sonata" is a genre explored and developed by many composers throughout history. In the Romantic period, the piano sonata became a popular and significant form for composers to showcase their virtuosity and emotional expression.

With Robert Schumann, the (romantic era) piano sonata reached new heights of complexity and innovation. One detailed example of Schumann's innovation in the piano sonata genre is his use of thematic transformation. In the second movement of Sonata No. 2, he takes a simple, melancholic theme and gradually transforms it into a passionate and virtuosic climax, showcasing both his technical skill and emotional depth.

Another example of Schumann's innovation can be seen in his use of unconventional harmonies and chord progressions. In the first movement of Sonata No. 2, he incorporates unexpected modulations and tonal shifts, creating a sense of unpredictability and tension. The last movement of the Sonata No. 2 showcases Schumann's virtuosic and energetic style, with fast-paced passages and dramatic flourishes that captivate the audience.

Novelletten No. 4 in D Major, Op. 21

Novelletten No. 3 in D Major, Op. 21

Novelletten No. 2 in D Major, Op. 21

Novelletten No. 1 in F Major, Op. 21

Symphony N.6 Pastorale (Quattro Stagioni) for large orchestra, piano, tenor voice, and mixed choir by David Ezra Okonsar is a powerful musical composition that showcases the beauty of nature and the human experience of it. The music captures the essence of the changing seasons and the emotions they evoke. 

The symphony includes tenor vocals and a choir (SATB) with Latin words. However, there are no meaningful written lyrics; the vocal parts are designed as musical notes featuring Latin words as musical entities. The vocal parts are meant to convey a mood rather than tell a story. The Latin words woven into the music add an element of mystery and reverence, enhancing the overall emotional impact of the piece.

Nature and the four seasons are conceptualized in relation to the Divine in this music, bringing a sense of spirituality and connection to the natural world. The intricate layering of instruments and voices creates a rich tapestry of sound that transports the listener to another realm. The ethereal quality of the music allows the listener to feel as though they are experiencing a spiritual awakening, connecting them to something greater than themselves. The harmonious blend of voices and instruments creates a sense of unity and harmony, mirroring the balance found in nature. The Latin words act as a vessel for the emotions and intentions of the piece, allowing the listener to interpret and feel the music in a personal and profound way. Overall, the composition transcends language and culture, speaking directly to the heart and soul of all who hear it.

The work can be seen as another interpretation of Beethoven's "Pastorale Symphony" (also No. 6), but with a modern twist that captures the essence of nature and human emotion in a unique and powerful way. The composer's harmonies and melodies create a truly immersive experience that resonates deeply with listeners. Various instruments and voices add an extra layer of depth to the piece, bringing Beethoven's vision of life and nature in a fresh and innovative way that captivates audiences.

4 Lestate

3 La Primavera

2 Linverno

1 Lautunno

David Ezra Okonsar, Belgian pianist, composer, conductor and musicologist was born in Istanbul, Turkey. He studied piano, composition and orchestration at the Brussels Royal Conservatory and musicology at the Istanbul Technical University. His primary teachers were J. Cl. Vanden Eynden and Alexis Weissenberg for the piano and Madame Jacqueline Fontyn for composition. He is laureate of numerous international piano competitions including the Gina Bachauer. Besides his international concert career he is a prolific composer and music writer.

01 - Well Tempered Clavier I Prelude Fugue 1 C Maj BWV 846

David Ezra Okonsar

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