Béla Bartók

Background:

Béla Bartók (1881-1945)

Bartók was a modernist and ethnomusicologist. He transcribed the music and rhythms of Hungarian folk songs. He used Hungarian  modes. He collected instruments from North Africa, Turkey, and Hungary. He was important because of his incorporation of folk melodies in his music which influenced the likes of Herbie Hancock.

“Excerpts from three  Etudes” by Bartók

I Etude:

This music is a great deal like the improvisation of jazz artists. There are many rising and falling notes placed in between the main rhythms.

 

III Etude:

This music is interesting and unique. There are many staccato right hand notes placed in between many fast slightly legato left hand notes. The frequently changing rhythm is a bit daunting. There are some times when the rhythm becomes increasingly fast and other times when it stops and becomes slow.

 

Movement IV “String Quartet” 1908

Very strong rhythms in the string section that are similar to Stravinsky’s “Rite of Spring.” I quite like this piece. This work is interesting, has a rhythm one can easily follow, and recognizable melody.  I also like the balance between the cello and violin. This music works well not only becomes of the “nsyncness” of the musicians, but also because of the well placed phrases that play off one another.