Some Observations on Bartók's Third Piano Concerto

Abstract

In the correspondence between Bartók and his publisher, Ralph Hawkes, a letter to the composer, dated 22 August 1940, contains what is apparently the first mention of the Third Piano Concerto:I do not know whether you have developed any ideas for new works during the last few months, quite possibly not, but I would like to remind you of your promise of the orchestral version of the Two Pianos and Percussion work, also to advise you that I shall expect the Third Piano Concerto by the summer of 1941. My reason for saying this is that you will be wanted as soloist with this work for the New York Philharmonic during its Centennial Season 1941–42.