Abstract:
This dissertation examines the similarities between Sergei Rachmaninoff’s Sonata nr. 1 in D minor, op. 28 and his Piano Concerto nr. 3 in D minor, op. 30. While studying the Sonata a considerable amount of similarities between the two works were noticed. Also noted was the short time period in-between the completion of these works, making this an interesting topic for discussion.
Numerous sources on analysis were read, in order to find the most appropriate method of analysis. The most appropriate method of analysis was to dissect the movements of each work into smaller segments, comparing the contents of each segment. Structure, transitional passages, character of different subjects, developmental sections and the order in which these sections occur, pedal points, sequences, climaxes, melodic lines and contours, rhythmic formulas and intervals were compared. Comparisons show that the Concerto was definitely influenced by the Sonata. Rachmaninoff expands on, and deviates from the sonata form in similar ways. There is also identical use of the minor second interval in both works.
The motivation for this study is to examine Rachmaninoff’s unconscious actions in writing the Concerto. These unconscious actions come from ideas developed while composing the Sonata.
