Frances Marion Ralston (1880-1958) was an American composer and pianist known for her contributions to early 20th century American music. Ralston's piano works are characterized by their lyrical melodies, elegant harmonies, and imaginative use of the keyboard.
One of her charming and delightful piano works is her "Three Little Waltzes," which was published in 1924.
Each of the waltzes in this set is relatively short and has its own distinct character. The first waltz begins with an opening phrase that is repeated and elaborated upon, leading to a second contrasting theme. The piece is light-hearted and charming, with lively rhythms and playful melodic turns that give it a carefree quality.
The second waltz has a more subdued and introspective character. The harmonies are more complex than those in the first waltz, with occasional dissonances adding a touch of tension to the music. Despite this, the overall mood of the piece is gentle and contemplative, with a sense of quiet introspection that is quite different from the first waltz.
The third waltz is the most romantic and expressive of the set. The harmonies are rich and full, with occasional modulations that add a touch of drama to the music. This final waltz is a showcase for Ralston's virtuosic keyboard writing, with intricate figurations and rapid runs that demand a high level of technical skill from the performer.
Frances Marion Ralston's piano works are notable for their graceful melodies, expressive harmonies, and imaginative use of the keyboard. Her music captures the spirit of early 20th century America and showcases the virtuosic skills of the performer, making her an important figure in the development of American piano music.
She served as director of the music department at Central College, Lexington, MO for two years and then served in the same capacity at the Music School of Rockford College, IL for nine years.
Ralston died on Feb. 5, 1952 in Arcadia, CA.
Selected Performances
3 Little Waltzes: No 1, Avowal (1946) - This set of waltzes was composed towards the end of Ralston's life, when she was in her 70s. This is the first waltz in the collection.
3 Little Waltzes: No 2, Estrangement (1946) - This is the second waltz in Ralston's piano suite titled "3 Little Waltzes." This piece has a more subdued and introspective character. The harmonies are more complex than those in the first waltz, with occasional dissonances adding a touch of tension and quiet angst to the music.
3 Little Waltzes: No 3, Reconciliation (1946) - This final waltz is a showcase for Ralston's virtuosic keyboard writing, with intricate figurations and rapid runs that demand a high level of technical skill from the performer. It's as much fun to play as it is to hear!
Locating the Music
Ralston's music is all out of print. Contact me if you would like copies of "3 Little Waltzes." I have located a version of a very early piano pieces titled "Romance for Piano." It can be found at the link below.
List of Solo Piano Compositions
Romance for Piano - 1888
Theme and Variations for Piano - 1919
Orientales for the Piano - 1920
Sonata for Piano - 1921
Impressions at Wellesley: A Set of Piano Pieces - 1920
Bubbles/Dancing Leaves/Morning and the lark/The Old Mill/White Clouds - 1927
Three Little Waltzes - 1946
Prelude and Fugue - date unknown
Six Pieces in the Greek Modes - date unknown
Six Etudes - date unknown
Six Preludes - date unknown
Three Impressions - date unknown
Fantasie Impromptu - date unknown
Musical Ideas for Beginners - date unknown