Composer

:

R. Nathaniel Dett

Genre

:

Keyboard

Compose Date

:

1928

Average_duration

:

15:21

Movement_count

:

4

Movement ....

'Cinnamon Grove' is a piano suite composed by R. Nathaniel Dett, an African-American composer, pianist, and choral director. The suite was composed in 1913 and premiered in the same year. It consists of four movements, each of which is inspired by the folk music of African Americans. The first movement, titled 'Banjo', is a lively and rhythmic piece that imitates the sound of a banjo. It features syncopated rhythms and a playful melody that evokes the joy and energy of African American folk music. The second movement, 'O, Freedom', is a slow and mournful piece that reflects the struggles and hardships of African Americans during the era of slavery. It features a simple and haunting melody that is repeated throughout the piece, creating a sense of longing and sadness. The third movement, 'Dance', is a lively and energetic piece that celebrates the joy and vitality of African American dance. It features a syncopated rhythm and a lively melody that encourages the listener to move and dance along. The final movement, 'Cinnamon Grove', is a slow and contemplative piece that evokes the peaceful and serene atmosphere of a grove of cinnamon trees. It features a simple and delicate melody that is accompanied by gentle arpeggios and a soft, flowing rhythm. Overall, 'Cinnamon Grove' is a beautiful and evocative piano suite that showcases the rich and diverse musical traditions of African Americans. Its four movements are each unique and distinct, yet they are united by a common theme of celebrating the beauty and resilience of African American culture.

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