Piano Concerto

Abstract

This thirteen-minute concerto explores the concept of the "third-stream" style, a genre prevalent from the early twentieth century onward that explores the fusion of classical and the popular idioms. The piano writing, especially in the cadenza, is greatly influenced by George Gershwin's Piano Concerto in F, one of the most representative works in this style due to its jazzy syncopated rhythms and romantic pianistic writing. In addition to the traditional orchestral instrumentation, this piece includes several drum set solos, recalling some of the percussive passages from Leonard Bernstein's West Side Story, a musical theater work evoking jazz and Latin styles. This piece also draws influence from the contemporary group Bad Plus Trio, embracing the avant-garde jazz style apparent in 1972 Bronze Medalist from the album "These Are the Vistas."