ABRSM Grade 8 - Piano Exam Pieces
Schubert - Impromptu in A-Flat (No. 2 from Four Impromptus, Op. 142 D. 935)
ABRSM Grade 8 - B9
The A-flat Impromptu, written the year before Schubert’s death, contrasts outer sections where we find a simple chordal texture and a gentle melody on the top with a central trio of flowing arpeggiated triplets over a rocking bass. The music explores the colour possibilities of the different registers of the piano, the stately mood of the A section leading to an impassioned climax in the trio. Chord balance and voicing, as well as control of the pedal, are necessary ingredients of a beautiful performance.
