• 2pf
  • 6 min

Programme Note

Composer Note:

Kaleidoscope for Two Pianos was written during my student years as an undergraduate at Columbia College (1955–59). The work began as a project in Otto Luening’s composition class, and is dedicated to Luening and to composer Marc Bucci. As the title implies, is a colorful mosaic of changing symmetrical patterns, some infused with a ragtime feel, others highly lyrical in content. The work is in ternary form with an extended lyrical center that treats a folk-like melody to a variety of contrapuntal elaborations. In general, Kaleidoscope is high-spirited and full of the energy of youth. It received its world premiere at the Spoleto Festival (Italy) in 1961 with pianists Stanley Hollingsworth and Morey Ritt.

— John Corigliano

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Discography