Petr Eben’s Piano Works and Their Significance in 20th-Century Piano Literature
Abstract
The article explores the lesser-known and rarely performed piano compositions of the Czech composer Petr Eben (1929–2007). The author aims to explore the reasons why these works are rarely performed, as well as to argue why they should be played. She also identifies which pieces are suitable for both piano students and concert pianists, and why. The article provides an introduction to Petr Eben’s life, the distinctive features of his compositional style, and his overall relationship to music. It then offers a detailed description of his piano works, including interpretative challenges and other specific considerations. Furthermore, it discusses why these pieces are not commonly included in today’s active pianists’ repertoire. The third chapter presents the results of a sociological survey conducted among teachers at Czech conservatories on this topic. Additionally, the article includes a complete list of Eben’s piano compositions, along with various practical information and comparative analyses. This study is the result of many years of engagement with Eben’s piano oeuvre, specifically as part of the author’s doctoral research at the Academy of Performing Arts in Prague.