Death, destruction, and nightmares

Can anyone recommend any violent sounding pieces?

In terms of "dark" emotions, the Wolf Glen's scene from Weber's Der Freischuetz is a fabulous at painting an "evil" picture which could be associated with nightmares, I presume. In terms of violence... I'm drawing a blank. Sorry.

How about the Prokofiev Toccata?

Or perhaps Copland's Piano Variations.

Can anyone recommend any violent sounding pieces?

Certainly!

Prokofiev's "Suggestion Diabolique" and the third and final movement to his Seventh Sonata.

From Messaien's 'Vingt Regards sur l'enftant Jesus' number VI: 'Par lui tout a été fait'

Boulez's Second Piano Sonata

Sorabji's 'Variazione maliziosa e perversa sopra "La Morte d'Åse" de Grieg'

I'm sure there are many more.

I recomend this.

Also:

How about the Prokofiev Toccata?

My favourite piece at the moment. A recording can be found here.

I always found some of Franz Liszt's works to a be slightly sinister and dark at times as well.

Like One of Lizts fantays. I saw this tiny girl(age 19-25) play the piece at Bowling Green. She had to get out of her seat to reach everything. If my pitch is correct it starts with tritones going down. I believe its c f# c f# c f# starting in the middle of the piano then going down. (dotted rythm) Slowly.

Its very loud and very powerful. Though it does have its happy sections. Which is a good contrast. Unless you want to sob after it. Then listen to Arvo Part 1st symphony. Although that is not a piano piece. you will sob.

Or perhaps Copland's Piano Variations.

I was just listening to that, so I would say that's a good one to recommend.