Composer

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Gioachino Rossini

Genre

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Keyboard

Style

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Character Piece

Average_duration

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5:26

"Les amandes (Quatre mendiants), QR xix/13" is a vocal quartet composed by Gioachino Rossini. The piece was composed in 1864, during Rossini's later years, and was premiered in Paris in the same year. The piece is part of a collection of vocal quartets known as "Quatre mendiants" or "Four Beggars," which also includes "Les figues," "Les raisins," and "Les dattes." The piece is divided into four movements, each representing a different type of nut or fruit that a beggar might receive as alms. The first movement, "Les amandes" (almonds), is a lively and playful piece in which the four voices intertwine and play off of each other. The second movement, "Les figues" (figs), is a slower and more contemplative piece, with a mournful quality that reflects the sadness of the beggar who receives this fruit. The third movement, "Les raisins" (grapes), is a lively and rhythmic piece that evokes the joy and celebration that might accompany the receipt of this fruit. The final movement, "Les dattes" (dates), is a slow and mournful piece that reflects the sadness and desperation of the beggar who receives this fruit. The vocal quartet is characterized by Rossini's signature style, which is marked by its lightness, playfulness, and virtuosity. The piece is also notable for its use of vocal counterpoint, in which the four voices weave in and out of each other, creating a complex and intricate tapestry of sound. The piece is a testament to Rossini's skill as a composer, and to his ability to create music that is both beautiful and entertaining.

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