Selected Piano Works for Four Hands

Book excerpt: Franz Schubert's piano pieces for four hands are among the most varied and significant works in the entire repertoire. Schubert wrote more of these works than any other major composer, and generations of teachers, students, and concert musicians have enjoyed their enduring beauty and vitality. Included in this volume are 15 of Schubert's best and most popular titles, taken from the definitive Breitkopf and Hartel "Schubert-Gesammtausgabe." Composed between 1818 and 1828, they include the tremendously popular Military Marches, Op. 51 (of which the D Major is a striking and familiar melody); the famed "Grand Duo" Sonata in C Major, Op. 140; the Fantasia in F Minor, Op. 103 (written only a few months before Schubert's death, it is one of the most famous and elegantly expressive works in the genre); Variations in A-flat Major on an Original Theme, Op. 35; Andantino Varie in B Minor on French Motifs, Op. 84, No. 1; Fugue in E Minor, Op. 152; and a delightful array of landler, polonaises, and variations. The 23 separate pieces have been selected so that pianists of virtually any level can find works to match their needs. They range in difficulty from beautifully sculpted marches that beginners can play, to works requiring maturity and great technical skill. This volume has been specially designed as a playing edition. The noteheads are large and easily readable at the piano, and wide margins allow plenty of room for written notes, fingerings, analysis, etc. Of special importance is the addition of measure numbers, placed on alternate staves, which allow the pianists to find their place quickly while rehearsing. For playing, study, or simply listening along with records, this volume will be an admirable addition to your music library."