Étude in C-sharp minor, Op. 2, No. 1, is an étude for piano, written by Russian composer Alexander Scriabin in 1887.[1]
This étude was written in 1887, when Scriabin was just 16 years old. It was the first of the Three Pieces, Op. 2, and was one of Scriabin's earliest successes.[1]
Étude Op. 2 No. 1 is in 3/4 time and is in the key of C-sharp minor.
The melody is poignant and heartfelt, showing many characteristics of Russian Gypsy music. It is accompanied by repeated chords in both hands, featuring rich harmonies, inner voices, and large spreads in the left hand. The dynamics of the piece are varied constantly to display emotion and passion and to add interest. The piece features many key changes but finally concludes in the original key. Although it is a slow and somber piece, like many other études it is considerably difficult to perfect.
This étude lasts for about three minutes.[1] [2] [3]
| Pianist | Duration | Record Label | Recording Date | Album | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vladimir Horowitz[4] | 02:39 | Deutsche Grammophon | 1986 | Horowitz in Moscow | |
| Shura Cherkassky[5] | 03:24 | London Records | 1982 | Encores | |
| Vladimir Horowitz | 03:04 | Sony Classics | mid 1960s? | Horowitz plays Scriabin | |
| Sviatoslav Richter[6] | 02:51 | Melodiya | 1952 | Richter | |
| Burkard Schliessmann | 03:20 | Bayer Records | 1990 | Alexander Scriabin, Piano Works |