My research of Rachmaninoff's “Morceaux de Fantaisie, Op. 3” will mainly focus on the techniques of Rachmaninoff’s compositional styles in this early work. I will also explore the composers inspiration from literary productions and art works, as well as frequently used motifs included bell-like sounds, the Dies Irae and Russian Orthodox chants.

This dissertation is in three chapters. The first chapter focuses on Rachmaninoff’s musical life as a Russian pianist, composer and conductor. It also includes a discussion of his music works and the compositional styles. The second chapter looks at the influences that inspired Rachmaninoff’s composition. The Third chapter will focus on analyzing“Morceaux de Fantaisie, Op. 3”and its providing deeper background. Also, I compare the 1893 and 1940 versions. Finally, I give suggestions and discuss aspects of interpretation. In conclusion, I hope through the research and study of“Morceaux de Fantaisie, Op. 3”to contribute to the general public a deeper understanding of this work.

Liu, Chih-Liang Graduation Concert

Program

J. S. Bach：Prelude and Fugue in C minor from

The Well -Tempered Clavier Book II, BWV 871

W. A. Mozart ：Piano Sonata in A minor, K. 310

F. Mendelssohn Bartholdy：Prelude and Fugue in E minor, Op. 35, No. 1

S. Rachmaninoff：Morceaux de Fantaisie, Op. 3

1. Elegie

2. Prelude

3. Melodie

4. Polichinelle

5. Serenade

Nikolai Kapustin : Preludes, Op. 53

No. 23 in F Major

No. 9 in E Major

No. 17 in A-flat Major.