Berkeley, Lennox: Introduction and Allegro (1971) (Double Bass & Piano)

Good work for examinations and recitals by an important British composer. Duration c.6′.

Introduction and Allegro for double bass and piano was commissioned with the aid of a grant from the Arts Council of Great Britain and written for Rodney Slatford in the summer of 1971. The form is that of the traditional Introduction and Allegro, that is to say beginning with a slow section that leads into an Allegro without a break. The main theme of the Allegro is a rhythmical figure out of which grow several subsidiary motifs. In the middle of this there is a more melodic and slightly slower theme. Towards the end is an illusion to the Introduction lasting for only four bars, after which a short coda concludes the piece. Throughout I have tried to use the true characteristics of the double bass without relying on technical tricks requiring the highest virtuosity.