Rachmaninov - Vocalise and Piano Sonata No. 2, II. Non allegro -- Lento for 4 Pianos

Composed by Sergei Rachmaninov
Arranged by Jeffrey Xu '27
Performed by Sean Lee '26, Amanda Wang '25, Jeffrey Xu '27, Selena Xiang '27
In this captivating medley, Sergei Rachmaninoff's "Vocalise" and Piano Sonata No. 2, Movement 2 converge to form an introspective musical journey. Originally composed as a wordless song for the soprano voice, "Vocalise" exudes haunting beauty, embodying Rachmaninoff's ability to evoke profound tapestries of emotion through melody alone. Similar in melancholic intensity, Piano Sonata No. 2, Movement 2 offers a poignant exploration of heartache, nostalgia, and longing that builds upon the lush yet unresolved tensions of the Vocalise. The medley serves as a testament to music’s unparalleled ability to capture the complexities of the human spirit, inviting listeners to delve into their own inner worlds and to reflect on experiences both past and present.
'Equinox', Lee Rehearsal Hall, May 6 2024
--
As pioneers in the art of collaborative piano, we challenge the notion that piano is only a solo instrument and push the traditional boundaries of how the instrument is performed. Four hands on one piano, ten hands on five pianos, and everything in between - we’ve done it or we’ll do it. Our mission is nothing less than to make beautiful music accessible to all and to spread it around Princeton and the world.
www.princetonpianists.com