Composed in 1877 and dedicated to Brahms, Scharwenka’s
Romanzero Op 33 (he used the same title for his Opp 59 and 64—
Neuer Romanzero) is in the nature of a fantasy in four movements. The dramatic scherzo-like first movement is followed by a rather contemplative Adagio, which serves as an intermezzo leading to the third movement. Here, after the opening Vivace, the theme from the Adagio appears again in a slightly varied form. Scharwenka’s partiality to dance forms is more evident in the last movement which, after a short introductory passage, seems to suggest a polonaise. The work resolves itself in the tonic major and comes to a peaceful conclusion.
from notes by Martin Eastick © 2002
