Sorabji, Kaikhosru Shapurji. (1892 - 1988)

Opus Clavicembalisticum

London: Curwen & Sons. 1930. First edition. Curwen Edition 99902. Oblong 10" x 13". 252 pp. Original stiff brown paper wrappers, chipped at head and foot of spine, else fine.



At the time of its first performance in 1930, the Opus Clavicembalisticum was the longest piano solo work ever composed, taking over four hours to play. It is one of the most important works by the colorful, enigmatic Parsi composer and journalist best known for this and other keyboard works of labyrinthine complexity and protracted length. Notorious for his reclusiveness and prickly manner, Sorabji imposed a decades-long moratorium on performances of his works, relenting only in his final years. The present score includes the printed notice on the title "Public Performance Prohibited Unless By Express Consent Of The Composer." (8803)
Book
Classical Music