dithyramb
Greek composer
Definition
An ancient Greek lyric poem or song of passionate, irregular character, originally associated with the cult of Dionysus. Medtner titled both his Op.10 piano pieces and the final piece of Forgotten Melodies III (Danza ditirambica) as dithyrambs — implying celebratory, orgiastic energy.
Interpretive Guidance
In Medtner's dithyrambs, the passions are channelled through strict formal control. The celebratory quality comes from rhythmic energy and harmonic boldness, not from excess.