Scherzo in A-flat major (Borodin)
Introduction The first 6 bars of Borodin's Scherzo in A-flat major Alexander 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 the correct speed, the piece only lasts around three minutes. However, this ''"miniature"'' offers an admirable summary of its composer's style.
Recordings Alexander BorodinThe following pianists have recorded the piece: Pianist Duration Record Label Recording DateVladimir Ashkenazy 02:48 Philips Records 1983Margaret Fingerhut 02:58 Chandos Records 1985Philip Edward Fisher 03:22 Chandos Records 2011Roberto Giordano 03:12 Cypress Records 2004Dirk Joeres 02:59 Largo Records 1986Vladimir Leyetchkiss 03:15 Centaur Records 1991Sergei Rachmaninoff 02:57 RCA Victor 1935Marco Rapetti 03:21 Brilliant Classics 2008Victor Ryabchikov 03:04 Olympia Records 1999Joseph Villa 02:49 Dante Records 1980Alexander Glazunov
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 (Finale) the Scherzo, with the Nocturne inserted inside it as a trio section. The total length of the movement is around eight minutes.
See also *List of compositions by Alexander Borodin
References
External links * ''Scherzo in A-flat major'' at AllMusic* Scores for ''Scherzo in A-flat major'' at the  International Music Score Library Project (IMSLP)* ''Scherzo in A-flat major'' played by Sergei Rachmaninoff at YouTube* ''Scherzo in A-flat major'' played by Margaret Fingerhut at YouTube