Masques (Szymanowski)
Masques, Op. 34, is a set of three piano pieces composed by Karol Szymanowski between 1915 and 1916. The set consists of the following movements:
- Schéhérazade
- Tantris le Bouffon (Tantris the Jester)
- Sérénade de Don Juan
These pieces exemplify Szymanowski's impressionistic and exotic style during his middle period. They draw inspiration from literature and mythology, creating vivid and colorful soundscapes. Schéhérazade evokes the atmosphere of the One Thousand and One Nights, while Tantris le Bouffon portrays a playful and mischievous character derived from Arthurian legend (an alias of Sir Lancelot). Sérénade de Don Juan paints a musical portrait of the legendary seducer Don Juan.
The music is characterized by its rich harmonies, elaborate ornamentation, and evocative melodies. Szymanowski's use of the piano creates a wide range of textures, from delicate and shimmering passages to dramatic and powerful outbursts. Masques is considered one of Szymanowski's most important and influential works for the piano, showcasing his unique and innovative compositional voice. The pieces require significant technical virtuosity from the performer.