David Jennings

Piano Sonata op. 1

My Piano Sonata Op.1 was begun in 1988 and completed in its original form in 1995. Further work on the piece was carried out subsequently at various times until the Sonata was finally finished in 2009. I think it is fair to say that none of my other pieces have troubled me for so long! The opening of the first movement, Ballade, is deceptively serene but becomes increasingly combative. By the end of the recapitulation, the original material has been bent and distorted both melodically and harmonically. The jazzy Scherzo that forms the second movement explores the contrasts of time signature and is a test of the dexterity of the pianist. The third movement, entitled Romance, is the emotional kernel of the whole work. The outer sections are consolatory, the inner portion being more playful. The fiery Finale shows the influence of jazz and has an unusual structure. It begins as a rondo with a brief development section. This is followed by a contrasting quiet section that gives the music a moment of much needed calm. A transition passage leads directly to the coda, which begins in a mood of elation but winds down to a calm and reflective close. The work is dedicated to the distinguished Lancaster-based pianist Phillip Fawcett, who gave the first performance on 12th June 2009 at the University of Cumbria, Lancaster.
Duration about 21 minutes - 32 pages - Difficulty: Advanced/Recital level