Preludes for piano, 1954.

Ten miniatures composed in 1954 demonstrate a further development of Palester’s dodecaphonic thinking. Throughout the cycle the composer uses only one series, applying it in inversion and in a variety of transpositions. However, Palester is far from consistent in his use of the serial technique. In the fifth Prelude, there is no series at all and the last one shows a clear tonal tendency, which contradicts the basic rules of dodecaphony. At the same time the composer decides not to use rhythm markings and bar lines, which makes these miniature compositions free in character. Respective Preludesbear the following tempo markings: Lento grave, Vivace, Lento esspressivo, Agitato, Larghetto, Largo pesante, Andantino, Allegretto, Lento, and Vivace brillante e vigoroso.

A selection of (six) Palester’s Preludes was first performed by Ina Marika on the Radio Free Europe on 5 September 1956.