Description
The concert composition Paganini Jazz by Fazıl Say draws inspiration from classical, modern, and jazz genres, evoking the styles of renowned musicians such as Scott Joplin, Art Tatum, Gershwin, and Bernstein. Initially conceived as an engaging encore piece in 1988, it garnered positive feedback from audiences and music critics alike, leading to its evolution into a more substantial piano work over time. Between 1988 and 1995, the piece underwent several revisions and expansions. It can be viewed as a reinterpretation of Paganini's famous "24th Capriccio," reimagined as "variations on jazz" that demand virtuosic performance and allow for improvisation and diverse arrangements.
Throughout musical history, numerous composers have created works inspired by the "24th Capriccio," including Liszt, Brahms, Rachmaninov, and Lutoslawski. However, Say's composition stands out for its unique approach: the composer is willing to incorporate various "developmental passages" and "transitional improvisations" during live performances. Additionally, when performed as a brief encore, the piece is condensed in a manner that Say finds appropriate.
