Scriabin: 4 Preludes, Op.33

Introduction

This was the second of five sets of preludes Scriabin composed in 1903, one of the most productive periods in his career. Actually, though he was writing a large number of compositions, he was able to do so because many of the preludes were very slight creations. The pieces comprising this set are the shortest on average of any preludes he composed, lasting together about four minutes in typical performances. Yet, for all its brevity, this collection contains quite substantial music.

The first prelude in the Op. 33 set, in E major, is a gentle, lovely piece whose frail character is underscored, if not obliterated, by the disruptive harmonies at the end. The F sharp major second prelude continues the same mood, though the music is brighter and less fragile. Gradually, however, its more lustrous spirit erodes and the piece ends rather listlessly.

The C major third prelude, a mere half-minute, offers sharp contrast to the two previous pieces in its chordal torrent at the outset and its continual defiance thereafter. The last prelude, in A flat major, like the second, continues the mood from the previous piece, albeit somewhat modified and more elaborate here. It is also a bit jaunty and more recognizably melodic in its rugged character.

In the end, these preludes, while short and involving little development, must be assessed as worthwhile and thoroughly individual creations.

Parts/Movements

1. No. 1 in E major
2. No. 2 in F sharp major
3. No. 3 in C major
4. No. 4 in A flat major