Composer

:

Francis Poulenc

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Compose Date

:

1950

Average_duration

:

8:16

Movement_count

:

7

Movement ....

La fraîcheur et le feu, FP 147 is a song cycle composed by Francis Poulenc in 1950. The premiere of the work took place on May 17, 1950, at the Salle Gaveau in Paris, with baritone Pierre Bernac and pianist Francis Poulenc himself performing. The song cycle consists of eight songs, each with its own distinct character and mood. The texts are taken from the poetry of Paul Éluard, a close friend of Poulenc. The poems deal with themes of love, nature, and the human condition. The first song, "La fraîcheur et le feu" (Freshness and Fire), sets the tone for the cycle with its contrasting imagery of coolness and warmth. The second song, "Dans le jardin d'Anna" (In Anna's Garden), is a playful and whimsical piece that evokes the beauty of nature. The third song, "Le matin les branches attisent" (In the Morning the Branches Stir), is a more introspective piece that explores the inner workings of the human mind. The fourth song, "Fleurs" (Flowers), is a delicate and tender piece that celebrates the beauty of flowers. The fifth song, "Prière" (Prayer), is a solemn and contemplative piece that reflects on the nature of prayer and spirituality. The sixth song, "Soupir" (Sigh), is a melancholic and introspective piece that explores the depths of human emotion. The seventh song, "Le chemin de l'amour" (The Path of Love), is a joyful and celebratory piece that celebrates the power of love. The final song, "Le fiancéé du timbalier" (The Drummer's Fiancée), is a lively and energetic piece that tells the story of a drummer's love for a beautiful woman. Overall, La fraîcheur et le feu, FP 147 is a beautiful and evocative song cycle that showcases Poulenc's mastery of melody and harmony. The cycle is characterized by its rich and varied textures, its use of contrasting imagery, and its exploration of the human condition.

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