This work was commissioned by the Koussevitzky Foundation in 1948 and first performed by the Boston Symphony Orchestra conducted by the composer with Rudolf Firkusny as soloist. It is an accessible piece that makes use of jazz-like rhythms and melodic patterns. Unusual for a piano concerto, it comprises four movements instead of the usual three. The first movement begins with a slow introduction - Lento molto e molto tranquillo -. The brass introduces softly the three-note motto, soon repeated by the soloist, that will recur often during the work. A sudden change of mood occurs with the beginning of the Allegro deciso. The piano introduces a rhythmic theme. Piano and orchestra engage in a stormy dialogue but the calm returns soon. The tempo slows down and the piano introduces a second theme that sounds like an improvisation. A third theme played by the piano accompanied by the orchestra is followed by a mutual exchange of parts. There is no development, the piano launches the reexposition, concluding in a quiet ending. The second movement, Allegro feroce, molto ritmico, is a short scherzo, with a theme that strongly resembles the rhythm of the opening of the Allegro. The third movement, Andante molto espressivo, starts with a pensive and sad melody introduced by the oboe and taken later by the piano. The emotional intensity reaches a climax and then subsides toward a soft ending. The fourth movement, Allegro giocoso, begins with a cheerful rhythmic theme introduced by the piano. A contrasting middle section follows. Then, the jollity returns before the closing coda quotes the first two themes of the first movement.

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