Composer

:

Francis Poulenc

Genre

:

Chamber

Style

:

Melodrama

Compose Date

:

1940 - 1945

Average_duration

:

27:50

L'histoire de Babar, le petit éléphant, FP 129 is a musical composition by Francis Poulenc, based on the children's book of the same name by Jean de Brunhoff. The piece was composed in 1940 and premiered in Paris on February 14, 1945. It is a suite of seven movements, each depicting a different scene from the story of Babar, a young elephant who becomes king of the elephants. The first movement, "Introduction et marche royale," sets the scene for the story and introduces the character of Babar. It begins with a regal march, which is interrupted by a playful melody that represents Babar's youthfulness. The second movement, "Le petit éléphant," is a charming and whimsical piece that depicts Babar's childhood. It features a simple melody played by the piano, accompanied by the orchestra. The third movement, "La chasse," is a lively and energetic piece that depicts a hunting scene. It features fast-paced rhythms and a sense of urgency. The fourth movement, "La marche des éléphants," is a majestic and grand piece that depicts the elephants marching to Babar's coronation. It features a powerful melody played by the brass section. The fifth movement, "Le cortège," is a playful and lighthearted piece that depicts the animals celebrating Babar's coronation. It features a lively melody played by the woodwinds. The sixth movement, "La danse de Babar," is a charming and graceful piece that depicts Babar dancing with his queen. It features a delicate melody played by the piano, accompanied by the orchestra. The final movement, "Finale," is a triumphant and celebratory piece that brings the suite to a close. It features a grand melody played by the full orchestra, bringing the story of Babar to a satisfying conclusion. Overall, L'histoire de Babar, le petit éléphant, FP 129 is a delightful and charming piece of music that captures the spirit of the beloved children's book. It is a testament to Poulenc's skill as a composer and his ability to create music that is both playful and sophisticated.

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