Composer

:

Charles-Valentin Alkan

Genre

:

Keyboard

Compose Date

:

1872

Publication Date

:

1872

Average_duration

:

25:33

Charles-Valentin Alkan's 'Recueil de Chants Book 5 (6), Op. 70' is a collection of six pieces for solo piano. The collection was composed in 1857 and premiered in the same year. The six movements are titled "Le chemin de fer," "La chanson de la folle au bord de la mer," "Mazurka," "Le tambour bat aux champs," "Nocturne," and "Marche funèbre." The first movement, "Le chemin de fer," is a programmatic piece that depicts the sounds and motion of a train. The piece is characterized by rapid, repetitive figures in the right hand that imitate the sound of a train's wheels on the tracks. The left hand provides a steady bass line that represents the train's engine. The overall effect is a frenzied and exciting portrayal of the power and speed of the locomotive. The second movement, "La chanson de la folle au bord de la mer," is a haunting and melancholic piece that tells the story of a madwoman standing by the sea. The music is characterized by a mournful melody in the right hand that is accompanied by a simple, repetitive figure in the left hand. The piece is notable for its use of dissonance and chromaticism, which create a sense of unease and instability. The third movement, "Mazurka," is a lively and dance-like piece that is based on the traditional Polish folk dance. The music is characterized by a strong, rhythmic pulse and a playful melody that is passed between the hands. The piece is notable for its use of syncopation and ornamentation, which give the music a lively and festive quality. The fourth movement, "Le tambour bat aux champs," is a military march that is characterized by a strong, steady rhythm and a bold, martial melody. The music is reminiscent of a military parade, with the left hand providing a steady bass line that represents the marching feet of the soldiers. The piece is notable for its use of dynamic contrast and its dramatic, triumphant ending. The fifth movement, "Nocturne," is a slow and lyrical piece that is characterized by a gentle, flowing melody in the right hand. The left hand provides a simple accompaniment that supports the melody and creates a sense of calm and tranquility. The piece is notable for its use of rubato and its delicate, introspective mood. The final movement, "Marche funèbre," is a funeral march that is characterized by a slow, mournful melody in the right hand. The left hand provides a simple, repetitive figure that represents the solemn procession of mourners. The piece is notable for its use of dissonance and chromaticism, which create a sense of sadness and grief. Overall, 'Recueil de Chants Book 5 (6), Op. 70' is a diverse and engaging collection of pieces that showcase Alkan's skill as a composer and pianist. The collection is notable for its use of programmatic elements, its virtuosic piano writing, and its wide range of moods and emotions.

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