Not all composers believe in God, but they all believe in Bach.” That quote from pianist Jacqueline Smit was the inspiring starting point for a remarkable project. As part of it, the composition for piano solo Prelude – b weird was born: a modern, humble, and quirky nod to the Great Master.
for musicians and concert programmers
About the Composition
This piano piece is not a standalone miniature; rather, it is a response to an invitation to engage in a dialogue with music history.
A Project in Homage to Bach
Pianist Jacqueline Smit conceived a plan as simple as it was brilliant. She commissioned 24 contemporary composers to write a new prelude, each inspired by one of the preludes from the first part of Johann Sebastian Bach’s Well-Tempered Clavier. Renske Vrolijk wrote Prelude – b weird as a contribution to this large-scale project. As a result, the work is firmly rooted in a tradition, while at the same time having a completely distinct voice of its own.
A Quirky Response
Instead of a direct imitation, b weird is a lively and quirky response to Bach. For example, the piece stubbornly remains in the key of B minor, refusing to modulate. Yet, it feels anything but static. The composition draws its energy from a constant, motoric drive and specific musical gestures. Ultimately, these elements form a fitting and respectful ode to the great master, but one with a modern, quirky wink.
For performers
Instruments:
piano solo
Duration:
3′
Year:
2019
Premiere:
26 February 2022
Category:
piano solo
Language:
—
Lyricist:
—
Are you interested in performing this work? Please contact my publisher.
Renske’s sheet music
is published by Deuss Music.
Podcast over Prelude b-weird
Listen to Dutch broadcaster VPRO’s podcast on Prelude – b weird. (Dutch)