Composer

:

Gabriel Fauré

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Song: Art Song

Compose Date

:

1875

Publication Date

:

1877

Average_duration

:

2:08

Gabriel Fauré's 'Au bord de l'eau, Op. 8/1' is a song cycle composed in 1875. It premiered in Paris in 1876. The cycle consists of three movements, each of which is characterized by its own unique musical style and mood. The first movement, 'Au bord de l'eau' (By the Water's Edge), is a gentle and flowing piece that evokes the peacefulness of a quiet stream. The melody is simple and lyrical, with a delicate piano accompaniment that supports the vocal line. The lyrics, written by Sully Prudhomme, describe the beauty of nature and the tranquility of the water's edge. The second movement, 'Jardin nocturne' (Nocturnal Garden), is a more complex and mysterious piece. The piano accompaniment is more intricate, with a haunting melody that weaves in and out of the vocal line. The lyrics, also by Sully Prudhomme, describe a garden at night, where the flowers and trees seem to come alive in the darkness. The final movement, 'Le papillon et la fleur' (The Butterfly and the Flower), is a playful and lighthearted piece. The piano accompaniment is lively and energetic, with a melody that flits and dances like a butterfly. The lyrics, written by Victor Hugo, tell the story of a butterfly that falls in love with a flower, only to realize that their love is impossible. Overall, 'Au bord de l'eau, Op. 8/1' is a beautiful and evocative song cycle that showcases Fauré's skill as a composer. The three movements each have their own distinct character and mood, but they are united by a common theme of nature and the beauty of the natural world.

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