Erkki-Sven Tüür

Sonata no. 1

Erkki-Sven Tüür really exploits the potential of the piano in this three-movement sonata for piano (1985). The opening and closing movements are based on flowing, pianistic arpeggios, whereas in the slow middle movement the harmonies are brought out by means of harmonics reinforced an octave higher by the piano's sounding board and pedal. Premiered by Kalle Randalu at the University of Tartu in 1986, the sonata shows traces of minimalism and impressionism. The new and corrected edition contains an extensive introduction written by Dr. Hando Nahkur, who has also recorded the sonata.