Rachmaninoff Prelude Op. 32, No. 11 in B

Pianist Paul Orgel plays Rachmaninoff's Prelude Opus 32, No. 11 in B major.
Program Note:
Rachmaninoff typically writes in minor keys. Here, in major, the mood is quizzical, or pensive, with notes of gloom. A grudging sense of optimism breaks through occasionally, like a shrug. Am I describing the Russian personality?, Or maybe it's just a piece in major that sounds unhappy because of a lot of minor chords.
In any case, I've neglected Rachmaninoff until now. The only piece of his that I've played -- my favorite, aside from the Symphonic Dances -- is the Cello Sonata, composed in between the 2nd and 3rd concertos, which pianists call "Rach 2 and 1/2" due to the concerto-like difficulties of its piano part. Admittedly, the very chorally conceived Prelude in B has far fewer notes than almost anything else he wrote, but considering my love for it, it may lead to more Rachmaninoff as I enter my '70s!

[@drsharonlamb]

So beautiful!!