usurperò

usurperò is a musical composition for solo piano by the Italian composer Luigi Dallapiccola. Composed in 1940, it is a relatively short work, typically lasting around three to four minutes. The title, "usurperò," is an Italian word that translates to "I will usurp" or "I shall usurp."

The piece is written in Dallapiccola's characteristic serialist style, employing a 12-tone row. Despite its atonal nature, the composition is known for its emotional intensity and dramatic character. It features a wide range of dynamics and textures, moving from delicate passages to powerful, dissonant outbursts. The technical demands on the pianist are significant, requiring precision and expressive control.

"usurperò" is often performed as part of a larger recital program of 20th-century piano music. It exemplifies Dallapiccola's ability to create a concentrated and impactful musical statement within a compact form. The work explores themes of conflict and power, as suggested by its title, through its striking harmonic language and rhythmic vitality. It remains a respected piece within the modern piano repertoire.