The Prelude in g# minor op. 32 no. 12 – along with its fellow works in c# minor and g minor – can rightfully claim its rank among the most popular and frequently played préludes of Sergei Rachmaninov (1873 – 1943). This is due, in part, to its elegiac melody and shimmering accompaniment. The composer regularly placed this Prélude on his recital programs, and in 1921 he made a recording of it.
If we give credence to the date on the autograph, then the g# minor Prélude was written on 23 August 1910. As was his custom, Rachmaninov spent every summer resting and composing at his family’s country estate in Ivanovka, about 600 km southeast of Moscow.
After composing his first large sacred work between June and August, the Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom op. 31, he completed his 13 Préludes op. 32 there in August and September. The respective autographs bear dates between 23 August and 10 September, 1910.
Here is pianist Evgeny Kissin to play this music for you:
