The name nocturne was first applied to pieces in the 18th century, when it indicated an ensemble piece in several movements, normally played for an evening party and then laid aside. In its more familiar form as a single-movement character piece usually written for solo piano, the nocturne was cultivated primarily in the 19th century and characteristically features a cantabile melody over an arpeggiated, even guitar-like accompaniment.
The pieces that follow will keep these thoughts in mind, though they will, of course, take on characteristics of my own writing style. I hope whoever finds these short compositions will enjoy playing them.
“Nocturne in B Major” by Carol Magai (2020)
Click the to hear a recording of any selection.
