Carl Nielsen: Chaconne Op.32: Piano: Instrumental Work

Carl Nielsen is doubtlessly one of Denmark’s most important and popular composers. This is no more evident than in his 1916 work for Piano Solo Chaconne Op.32 which followed a seventeen-year gap in his compositions for that instrument. It is a decidedly dynamic work in constant motion from the moment the simple opening theme begins through the crescendo and to the winding down and end of this piece. The twenty variations that form the core of this piece themselves have a varied range sometimes comparatively easy showing Bach’s influence other times he uses highly complex contrasts. This is a fine example of Nielsen’s work and uses mood and texture togreat effect making it ideal for concert or recital performance whilst the variations make it a clever training manual.