Composer

:

Jean-Yves Daniel-Lesur

Genre

:

Chamber

Style

:

Elegy

Average_duration

:

5:37

"Elegie" is a composition for solo piano by French composer Jean-Yves Daniel-Lesur. It was composed in 1943 and premiered in Paris the same year. The piece is divided into three movements and has a total duration of approximately 10 minutes. The first movement, marked "Lent," is characterized by a mournful melody that is introduced in the left hand and then taken up by the right hand. The melody is accompanied by a simple, repetitive chord progression that creates a sense of stasis and melancholy. The movement builds to a climax before subsiding into a quiet, introspective coda. The second movement, marked "Assez lent," is more agitated than the first. It begins with a series of rapid, staccato chords that give way to a lyrical melody in the right hand. The left hand provides a driving accompaniment that propels the music forward. The movement reaches a frenzied climax before returning to the opening material. The final movement, marked "Lent," is a return to the mournful mood of the first movement. It begins with a simple, descending melody in the right hand that is accompanied by a series of chords in the left hand. The melody is gradually developed and expanded, building to a powerful climax before subsiding into a quiet, reflective coda. Overall, "Elegie" is a deeply expressive and introspective work that showcases Daniel-Lesur's gift for melody and his ability to create a powerful emotional impact with relatively simple means. The piece is often performed in recitals and competitions and has become a staple of the piano repertoire.

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