percussive piano style

Bartók's treatment of the piano as a percussion instrument rather than a singing melodic instrument — a deliberate 20th-century reaction against the Romantic cantabile ideal. In works like Allegro Barbaro, the Piano Sonata, and the Suite Op. 14, tone is produced with percussive attack, hard articulation, and relentless rhythmic drive.

In percussive Bartók, play with a firm, direct key attack and little or no pedal. Tone should be clear and hard-edged. Allow the rhythmic motor to dominate — this music does not want warmth or rubato; it wants drive and precision.