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This concerto begins peacefully, with an introduction in the form of a duet played by two clarinets in soli. Once the introduction is finished, the full force of the orchestra begins to pound driving, repetitive, and rhythmic figures, around which the piano bursts into a lightning-quick theme that reaches the highest octaves. Flutes and piccolos add a supportive atmospheric cloud as the tension rises. The second section of the theme is slower, more choral, and includes the piano. With the tempo slowed, the second subject is introduced -- an ironic theme played by oboe and tambourine. This transforms into an expressive Andante section for full orchestra, before the first theme returns to finish up the first movement.
The second movement is built around theme and variation. The theme itself is an atonal melody played by the flute. As the movement progresses, five inventive variations are introduced, one of which is a blistering re-articulation of the theme.
The two final movements are based on acrobatic, chordal leaps across the keyboard. The third movement explores this motif to its ultimate completion, while the fourth movement is slow, sweeping, and is consistent with Prokofiev’s explorations of early romantic modernism.
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