Suite for Toy Piano (1948)

This work was originally used as music for the choreographed piece by Merce Cunningham, A Diversion. This suite is in 5 short, numbered movements, and obviously employs a very limited gamut of tones: the nine white keys from E below middle C to the F above. Those for Movements I and V are limited to five tones: G to D. Only in movements III and IV do all nine tones appear. The rhythmic structure is 7-7-6-6-4. This suite is one of Cageʼs most charming and whimsical compositions. It is humorous and somewhat ironic, giving exaggerated dynamics that can't be fully realized on a toy piano, i.e. from sffz to ppp. Included in Works for Piano, Prepared Piano and Toy Piano, Volume 4: 1933–1952.

In 1963, Lou Harrison made an arrangement of this work for orchestra (3333 4330 timpani, percussion, piano, celesta, harp, strings).