Children’s Dances

“In twentieth century music, the names of Béla Bartók (1881-1945) and Zoltán Kodály (1882-1967) are synonymous with Hungarian folklore. Both created masterpieces in the same milieu, both developed a personal idiom, extended the range of piano sonority and contributed to the wealth of music literature, in other musical forms as well.  These pieces of Kodály’s are ideally suited as an introduction to contemporary music expression.  They are short and are excellent recital music.

Kodály was not only a remarkable composer, but a great teacher and authority on Hungarian folk music.  He was a supremely sensitive and imaginative musician.  This selection of his music illustrates a wide range of styles, mood and versatility.

These transcriptions are executed by Aristid von Würtzler, a one-time pupil of Kodály.  They illustrate von Würtzler’s stylistic sensitivity and exploit the capability of the harp with great pedagogical insight.

These pieces are also timely as a tribute to Kodály’s 100^th birthday which the music world will commemorate in 1982.”

— Charles K. Géczy