Gregory Spears

Toccata (Troika)

Troika is a Russian word meaning 'set of three' or a 'sled pulled by three horses.' In many places in the score there are three rhythmic layers working at different speeds to create a sense of forward motion. Sometimes these layers create a sense of a headlong rush, at other points the music glides along gently. The pianist may find places in the score that evoke other aspects of a troika ride: the winter wind, snow flurries, sleigh bells, horses galloping in tandem, bumps in the path, stars, or perhaps even a moonrise. The work is in three sections with a final coda that repeats material from the opening.Pedaling guidelines are included at various points in the piece. Performers may wish to nuance these in order to fit their individual interpretation.- Gregory Spears