Composer

:

Percy Grainger

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Keyboard

Compose Date

:

1924

Publication Date

:

1925

Average_duration

:

2:20

Percy Grainger's "Nell (after Fauré, Op. 18/1)" is a piano solo piece that was composed in 1919. The piece is based on Gabriel Fauré's song "Nell," which was originally composed for voice and piano in 1880. Grainger's version of "Nell" is the first of his "Free Settings of Favorite Melodies" series, which includes arrangements of other composers' works. The premiere of "Nell (after Fauré, Op. 18/1)" was given by Grainger himself in a recital at the Aeolian Hall in London on May 27, 1920. The piece consists of a single movement and has a duration of approximately four minutes. Grainger's arrangement of "Nell" is characterized by his use of harmonies and rhythms that are not present in Fauré's original song. The piece begins with a slow, melancholic introduction that sets the mood for the rest of the piece. The main theme is then introduced, which is a simple, lyrical melody that is repeated throughout the piece. Grainger's use of harmonies is particularly noteworthy in "Nell (after Fauré, Op. 18/1)." He employs a number of chromatic chords and unexpected modulations that give the piece a unique and modern sound. The rhythms in the piece are also complex, with frequent changes in meter and tempo. Overall, "Nell (after Fauré, Op. 18/1)" is a beautiful and haunting piece that showcases Grainger's skill as an arranger and composer. It is a testament to his ability to take a simple melody and transform it into something that is both complex and emotionally powerful.

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