AN ANALYSIS OF THE DIES IRAE MOTIF IN VARIOUS PIANO WORKS BY SERGEI RACHMANINOFF

Abstract

This study involves an exploration of the origin of the Dies Irae theme together with the analysis of several piano works by Sergei Rachmaninoff in which the theme has been incorporated. The Dies Irae theme has been a source of inspiration for many musicians throughout the history of music and has attracted the attention of generations of composers for centuries finding place in both sacred and secular music. Having largely been incorporated in sacred music until the Romantic era the Dies Irae theme has increasingly appeared in secular compositions during this period in the works of Hector Berlioz Franz Liszt Sergei Rachmaninoff and many others. Sergei Rachmaninoff is among the leading composers who have most frequently incorporated the theme or its small motifs in their works. Whether explicitly or subtly he has used the theme in his works for piano as well as orchestral and vocal music. Altogether it is beyond doubt that Sergei Rachmaninoff has nourished a special interest in the Dies Irae theme. The analysis of the utilization of this theme through examples selected from his works is thought to be an important step in enlightening his musical approach. In this respect the examples selected for the study are mostly his works for solo piano, a composition for two pianos and one piano work with orchestral accompaniment.