Improvised preludes by Wilhelm Backhaus (1884–1969)

Abstract

Wilhelm Backhaus (1884–1969) had a long career as a concert pianist. Among his numerous recordings, many examples of his improvised preluding are preserved from live concerts as well as a few from his early studio recordings. This paper analyzes 16 examples of his preludes to study their functions in concerts. Most of the examples are from public performances, often preceding encores. His preludes are short—typically between one and five bars long—and can be broadly categorized into two types: some comprising melody and accompaniment, and others consisting only of arpeggiations. None of them can be considered virtuosic warm-up exercises. Many end on a dominant chord rather than on the tonic. A few preluding melodies relate to the previous piece while about one-third hint at the melody or harmony of the ensuing piece. Backhaus’s preluding performances served as organic tools in structuring concerts. They function primarily to set the mood and tonality for the next piece, as well as to quiet the audience. Backhaus used preluding music before encores as riddles for the audience to solve revealing which composition will be played next. Backhaus’s preludes exhibit both breathtaking beauty and delicacy as miniature works that touch a deep chord in our hearts.