"Quattro Piccoli Pezzi per Quattro Mani" (Four Little Pieces for Four Hands) is a journey through distinct sound worlds, showcasing the versatility and expressive potential of the piano duet.
 
The first movement, "I. Procession of Bells and Gongs"1, transports the listener to an ethereal soundscape. Marked con precisione e concentrazione...under a spell and at a tempo of quarter note = 56, it evokes a sense of solemnity and wonder. The interplay between the two pianists creates resonant, shimmering textures, mimicking the sustained tones and rich overtones of bells and gongs.
 
Following this meditative opening, "II. Dance of Nested Circles and Strange Colors" is full of vibrant energy. The tempo marking of quarter note = 132 and the directive con gioia e colore! (with joy and color!) summons a lively and whimsical character. Intricate, interlocking musical lines create a kaleidoscope of sounds and harmonies, bringing to mind the "nested circles and strange colors" of the title.
 
The third movement, "III. All the Moments of your Life are but a Single Breath - a.k.a. All the Breaths of this Moment are but a Single Life -", offers a moment of profound introspection. The instruction "Prendi tutto il tempo che vuoi fino alla misura successiva..." (Take all the time you want until the next measure...) indicates a highly flexible and expressive approach to tempo, allowing for deep contemplation. Unique performance techniques are introduced, such as "Gently drag LH fingertip over strings" where the written notes "aren't precise" but "only meant to indicate a gesture," allowing the performer to "Go higher or lower as you see fit". Additionally, there's a directive to "Scrape toward tuning pegs with fingernail". This movement, marked con attenzione e pieno di luce...be here now...observe time expanding at a tempo of eighth note = 80, invites both performers and listeners to a state of mindfulness, exploring the vastness within a single moment.
 
Finally, the collection concludes with "IV. Trapeze Act with Hammers, Knives and Fire". The title asks for some virtuosic work from the players. With a very fast tempo range of quarter note = 192-200, this movement is full of percussive attacks, sharp contrasts, and fiery passages, demanding extreme precision and coordination from both pianists for a dramatic close to this diverse and brief work.