Sergei Prokofiev's Piano Sonata No. 4 (1917) is one of the last compositions he wrote before departing the newly formed Soviet Union in 1918, not to return permanently until 1936. Prokofiev was especially fond of the Andante assai second movement from this sonata and even recorded it in the early '30s (the only movement from any of this sonatas that he ever recorded). In 1934, he decided to transcribe the movement for orchestra.

In doing so Prokofiev turned what was already an intense and mysterious movement in the sonata into an angry statement—much bolder in full instrumental color; nevertheless, it retains much of its mystery and darkness. The ominous main theme rises from the depths and works itself up to the verge of eruption. A lovely, gentle alternate theme provides relief in the middle section, until the return of the opening melody brings on a climax of growling, powerful chords; after the dust settles, the two themes—both of seemingly opposite character—unite peacefully to bring on the close.



© All Music Guide