Program Notes:

I have always viewed the Piano Quintet as the younger cousin of the piano concerto. The string quartet, a unified and homogeneous medium in its own right, surrounds the piano and generously allows it to act like a concerto soloist. However, the beauty of this medium lies in its chamber music qualities, where each member expresses themselves as individuals, creating delicate and intimate musical moments.

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While composing my Piano Quintet (2000), I aimed to integrate all these elements. It consists of three movements that are closely related thematically. The first movement, marked poco rubato e tranquillo, introduces one of the quintet's main motives. Shortly after the introduction, the movement sharply transitions to a faster tempo and passionate character. A brisk and determined scherzo highlights the ensemble's light and virtuosic side. The final movement, adagio tenero, is the most extended of the three and serves as an echo of the preceding movements.

Piano Quintet was commissioned by the American Composer Forum, with funding provided by the Jerome Foundation.

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