NOCTURNE IN B MAJOR OP 32 NO. 1 (1837) is one of Chopin’s most intriguing nocturnes, the unusual climax with its sinister, threatening drumbeats is in complete contrast to the serene beginning.

SCHERZO NO 1 IN B MINOR OP 20 (C.1831-3) Written during a period of political turmoil and personal exile. Chopin’s first Scherzo stands as one of his most dramatic piano compositions. The central section offers a poignant contrast to the fiery and agitated main theme, featuring a lyrical melody based on a Polish Christmas carol.

TWO PRELUDES OP 23 NO, 3 AND OP 23 NO. 7 (1901-03)
Sergei Rachmaninoff composed his set of ten Preludes, Op. 23 following the success of his Second Piano Concerto. This era marked Rachmaninoff’s return to composition after a time of depression and self-doubt. These works were composed while Rachmaninoff was living in Moscow, and they capture both the grandeur and melancholy characteristic of Russian Romanticism.

THE ÉTUDES-TABLEAUX OP. 33 (1911) are “study pictures,” reflect Rachmaninoff’s intention for each piece to be a musical painting or narrative, evoking images and emotions. Op. 33 originally consisted of eight pieces, though only six were published during his lifetime.

The work consists of four short pieces, each capturing the spirit of Russian folk storytelling, with melodies that evoke the gentle reminiscences and playful anecdotes of an elderly grandmother.

TANGO (1940) is Stravinsky’s only tango, composed after he moved to the United States. It reflects his fascination with popular dance forms.

PIANO RAG MUSIC (1919) While living in France Stravinsky became inspired by Rag time music and created his own, unique version. The piece was dedicated to Rubenstein to encourage him “to play contemporary music”.