Sonata Secrets: Bartók's Romanian Folk Dances

Overview

• Composer: Béla Bartók
• Pieces: Six Romanian Folk Dances
• Level: Intermediate, characterized by short, sweet movements
• Context: Incorporates melodies from Central Europe into a Western art music framework. Contains unresolved dissonances, unusual modes, and unique rhythms.

General Remarks

• Cultural Context: Uses melodies from Bartók's music excavation trips.
• Controversy: Discussion on cultural appropriation; art is seen as blending and transformation.
• Editions: Universal Edition; Pedal markings can be ambiguous and sometimes excessive.

Detailed Analysis of Each Dance

Dance 1: Stick Dance

• Rhythm: Backward-feeling; syncopated eighth notes.
• Mode: A minor Dorian, blends modes.
• Pedal Use: Careful use to maintain melody crispness.
• Structure: Features legato contrasting with staccato sections.

Dance 2: Sash Dance (Braul)

• Character: Short and sweet, repeating structure.
• Mode: D minor Dorian
• Rhythm: Includes quintuplets for variety.
• Performance: Repeat sections with variations, such as playing an octave higher.

Dance 3: In One Spot (Pe Loc)

• Character: Ethereal, soft with harmonic intervals.
• Scale: Uses a gypsy scale with augmented intervals.
• Dynamics: Crescendo to mezzo piano; variations in harmony for interest.

Dance 4: Dance from Bucsum (Buciumeana)

• Character: Slow, floating with hemiola patterns.
• Mode: Phrygian feel with minor seconds.
• Pedal Use: Suggests finger pedal to keep melody clear.

Dance 5: Romanian Polka

• Tempo: Quick, requires more movement.
• Character: High energy, influences from Lydian mode.
• Rhythm: Uneven hypermeter for dynamic interest.
• Performance Tip: Seamless transition to the final movement.

Dance 6: Fast Dance

• Character: Fast, joyful with intricate hand patterns.
• Rhythm: Fast syncopated rhythms, offbeat sixteenth notes.
• Structure: Two folk melodies combined.
• Harmony: Mix of D major and C major, interesting re-harmonizations.
• Performance: Ends with increasing frequency of notes, enhancing dionysian ecstasy.

Conclusion

• Dionysian Influence: Emphasizes wild, ecstatic elements of music.
• Recommendation: Encourages exploring these dances for their fresh perspective.
• Patreon Acknowledgment: Thanks to supporters Jay Perlman and Annika.

These notes aim to capture the essence of each dance, the unique rhythms and harmonies, and the performance insights shared in the video.