Prelude in F-sharp minor (Rachmaninoff)
The Prelude in F-sharp minor, Op. 23, No. 1 is a composition by Sergei Rachmaninoff completed and premiered in 1903.[1][2] It is one of ten preludes composed by Rachmaninoff in 1901 and 1903.
Structure
The prelude is ternary and homophonic in nature. The "A" section (measures 1-13) introduces the first theme, section "B" (13-30) introduces a new set of variations, and measures 30-41 mark an altered return to the original "A" theme. Each of the larger ternary sections contains its set of "micro-variations" marked by changes in note values, dynamics, and rhythm. For instance, the "A" theme, introduced in measures 1 and 2, is varied in measure 8.
Measure 2
Measure 8
The Prelude proceeds from F-sharp minor to the relative major (A major) in measure 13, and returns to the tonic in measure 30.
A "hidden" chromatic sequence in the "A" section occurs in the bass line on the second beat of measure 1 and the first beat of measures 2-6. This sequence is later revealed as the basis for the "B" theme, first introduced transitorily as a modulation between the "A" and "B" sections. Compare measures 6 and 24:
Measure 6
Measure 24