Sonata brevis - Jan Novák

24. duben 2007

In the post-war generation of Czech composers Jan Novák (1921-1984) is undoubtedly one of the most talented and most striking personalities. At the beginning of the sixties Novák turned away from large symphonic compositions towards the smaller forms. At this time he also wrote two chamber compositions for the harpsichord, inspired by the harpsichordist Hana Šlapetová. In October 1960 Novák wrote the Sonata brevis for her, quickly followed by Inventiones per tonos XII clavicymbalo aut aliis instrumentis pinnatis modulandae (Inventions in the twelve-tone system for harpsichord and other key instruments).

Whereas the twelve Inventions were inspired by the polyphony of Bach, which Novák - in keeping with his interest at that time in the adaptation of a rational way of working - linked with the procedures of the twelve-tone technique, the three-part Sonata brevis is a small and playful composition, wittily utilising jazz procedures and the boogie-woogie style.

Practically all the works of Jan Novák were in the spirit of the Neo-classical creative orientation. Characteristic traits are the clear structure of the form, transparent instrumentation, melody in the framework of free tonality, lively rhythm and a sense of humour. The influence of the work of Bohuslav Martinů is evident in particular in the compositions of the first phase of Novák's work. From the end of the fifties the decisive trait is the inclination towards Latin poetry. Latin, which Novák spoke fluently and which he also handled intensively as a poet, became the chief source of inspiration for his work.

Other compositions by Jan Novák published in Czech Radio:
Aeolia
Capriccio - score
Capriccio - piano score
Dido / piano score
Due preludi e fughe per flauto solo
Elegantiae tripudiorum
Elegantiae tripudiorum for Piano
IV Hymni christiani
Choreae vernales for Flute and Guitar
Choreae vernales for Flute and Piano
Choreae vernales for Flute, String Orchestra and Harp with Celesta or Piano
Odarum concentus choro fidium
Panisci fistula
Prima sonata
Rotundelli
Scherzi pastorali for Clarinet (or Bass Clarinet) and Piano
Sonata da chiesa II for Flute and Organ
Sonata tribus
Sonatina for Flute and Piano
Tibia fugitiva
Toccata chromatica
Variations on the theme by Bohuslav Martinů

instrumentationcembdescriptionpartpubl.NoR 122price140,- CZK

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