Alaplépés

Alaplépés is a concept in Hungarian classical music that refers to the fundamental patterns or rhythmic motifs used in compositions, particularly in the works of Béla Bartók. These patterns serve as a foundation or baseline for the music, similar to a pedal point in Western classical music.

In Bartók's compositions, alaplépés typically involves the repetition of a simple rhythmic pattern or motif, often in a piano or instrumental work. This pattern may be repeated or varied to create an intricate texture, while the surrounding melodic material is developed from and reacts with the alaplépés. The use of alaplépés adds a sense of structure and depth to Bartók's works, while also creating opportunities for musical exploration and development.

Bartók's employment of alaplépés is closely tied to his interest in Hungarian folk music and its rhythms. Bartók believed that folk music could serve as a model for classical composition, and he often drew on the rich rhythmic traditions of Hungarian folk music as a source of inspiration. In this context, the alaplépés represents a way of incorporating and extending the rhythmic patterns found in folk music into his classical compositions.

The concept of alaplépés has had a significant influence on Hungarian classical music, particularly in the realm of piano music. Composers who have followed in Bartók's footsteps, such as György Ligeti and éva Lendvai, have also employed similar techniques in their works. Alaplépés remains a distinctive and important aspect of Hungarian classical music, a testament to the country's rich musical heritage.