III Koncert fortepianowy – Okruchy Pamięci (Piano Concerto no. 3 – Fragments of Memory) - Zygmunt Krauze

The musical work requires the composer to focus primarily on its shape, the use of appropriate means of expression, forms, or figures. Normally, these choices are linked to the work’s content or hidden message. The expression of these thoughts is music itself. The idea underlying the Piano Concerto no. 3 is my disagreement with the reality of the modern world, full of injustice and inequality between people on each continent, in villages and cities of each country. The work expresses pain but is devoid of aggression, permeated instead by hope that a better time shall come. 

The Concerto’s solo part includes a theatrical element. The pianist utters and shouts words that evoke the feeling of confusion, nervousness, panic, doubt... The role of the soloist is thus extended with a purely human aspect.

The solo piano part plays a leading role throughout the work. There is no conflict between the individual and orchestral parts, the latter merely serving to emphasise the role and importance of the piano. A very important element is the introduction of four original percussion instruments collectively known by veme, which were manufactured by the Orchestre National de Lorraine. The work is composed of a series of contrasting and unlinked units, which emphasises the feeling of uncertainty and confusion. The Concerto consists of a single movement. It was commissioned by the Adam Mickiewicz Institute, Orchestre National de Metz, Warsaw Autumn Festival, and the Warsaw Philharmonic. 

Duration: around 15 minutes. 

Zygmunt Krauze