Aaron Alter

Toccata-Variations on a Theme by Charlie Parker was written for the San Diego-based pianist Dr. Vania Pimentel, who wanted a living US-based composer to add a new piece to her recital program, entitled "Four Centuries of Toccatas." The work combines thematic material from the Charlie Parker tune, "Segment", with stylistic elements of J.S. Bach's organ toccatas. It is a short piece, less than five minutes, but shifts rapidly between many styles. Besides the influences of Parker and Bach, you'll hear influences of Beethoven, the Jazz pianist Bud Powell, Chopin, Liszt and the Stride piano style.

Toccata-Variations on a Theme by Charlie Parker is published by Universal Edition. Fingering is included, by the Steinway Artist, Susan Merdinger. Please Click Here for more information on how to get scores.

Below is the video of the World Premiere performance by Dr. Vania Pimentel on November 3, 2017 in Coronado, California.