Prelude in C-sharp Minor Op. 3/2 [CF:UT050417]

The Rachmaninov Prelude is one of those classics you can "name in three notes." A global success shortly after he first performed it in 1892, the Prelude has become a "rite of passage" for advancing pianists. Its dynamic chordal passages, slow-building middle section, and clanging finale bring forth the full power of the instrument, solidifying the Prelude's place in the repertoire. In preparing the urtext edition, Reutter and Franke have consulted the autograph and first print, as well as Rachmaninov's own recordings of the piece.