Ferdinand Ries: Introduction et Rondo Brillant, Op.144

 

Ferdinand Ries

 

Ferdinand Ries (28 November 1784 (baptised) – 13 January 1838) was a German composer.

Ries was a friend, pupil and secretary of Ludwig van Beethoven. He composed eight symphonies,

a violin concerto, eight piano concertos and numerous other works in many genres, including 26 string quartets.

 

Introduction et Rondo Brillant, Op.144

The Introduction et Rondeau brillant, Op. 144, composed in 1825, follows the structural models that he had developed in the works composed since the 'Swedish' Variations of 1813. In common with several of these works, the rondo theme of Op. 144 is foreshadowed in the introduction. The theme is not derived from the arresting opening bars in the orchestra, however, but from the idea presented first by the piano. Although this theme and the rondo theme that follows are closely related, the change of tempo and recasting of the surface detail utterly transforms its character. The return of a truncated version of the original introductory theme towards the end of the movement reasserts the fundamental importance of the link between the two major sections of the work while highlighting their expressive differences. It is as typical of Ries's care with structural planning, the consequence of his deep admiration for Beethoven's music, as the virtuosic demands of the solo writing is of his distinctive style of pianism. The clarity and brilliance of Ries's orchestration also contributes to the appeal of the work. (from album notes by Allan Badley)