Composer

:

Francis Poulenc

Genre

:

Chamber

Style

:

Chamber Music

Compose Date

:

1942

Publication Date

:

1998

Average_duration

:

1:19

"Un Joueur de flûte berce les ruines" is a composition for voice and piano by Francis Poulenc. It was composed in 1918, during World War I, and premiered in Paris in 1920. The piece is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct characteristics. The first movement, "Le joueur de flûte," is a gentle lullaby sung by the flute player to the ruins of a city. The melody is simple and soothing, with a repetitive rhythm that mimics the rocking of a cradle. The piano accompaniment is sparse, with gentle arpeggios and occasional chords that provide a soft bed for the voice. The second movement, "Les ruines," is a stark contrast to the first. The piano opens with a dissonant chord that sets the tone for the rest of the movement. The voice enters with a mournful melody that is full of longing and despair. The piano accompaniment is more complex, with jagged rhythms and harsh chords that reflect the shattered landscape of the ruins. The final movement, "Le joueur de flûte," returns to the gentle lullaby of the first movement. However, this time the melody is more complex, with a sense of urgency and longing that was not present before. The piano accompaniment is also more active, with a sense of movement and energy that reflects the rebuilding of the city. Overall, "Un Joueur de flûte berce les ruines" is a haunting and beautiful composition that captures the emotions of a war-torn world. The contrast between the gentle lullaby and the harsh dissonance of the ruins creates a sense of tension and release that is both powerful and moving.

More....