Composer

:

Claude Debussy

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Song: Art Song

Compose Date

:

1904

Average_duration

:

3:52

"Colloque sentimental" is a song composed by Claude Debussy, which is the third and final song of his song cycle "Fêtes galantes II". The song was composed in 1891 and premiered in 1892. The song is based on a poem by Paul Verlaine, which describes a conversation between two former lovers who meet again after a long time. The song is written in the key of F-sharp minor and is marked "Très modéré" (very moderate) in tempo. The song is divided into three sections, each with its own distinct character. The first section is marked by a melancholic and nostalgic mood, with the piano playing a simple and repetitive accompaniment. The second section is more agitated and passionate, with the piano playing a more complex and virtuosic accompaniment. The final section returns to the mood of the first section, with the piano playing a simple and repetitive accompaniment once again. The song is characterized by Debussy's use of impressionistic harmonies and textures. The harmonies are often ambiguous and unresolved, creating a sense of tension and unease. The piano accompaniment is also notable for its use of arpeggios and broken chords, which create a shimmering and ethereal texture. The vocal line is also notable for its use of melodic fragments and repeated motifs, which create a sense of fragmentation and instability. The vocal line is often accompanied by the piano in a call-and-response style, with the piano echoing and elaborating on the vocal melody. Overall, "Colloque sentimental" is a haunting and evocative song that captures the mood of Verlaine's poem. Debussy's use of impressionistic harmonies and textures creates a sense of ambiguity and unease, while the vocal line and piano accompaniment work together to create a sense of fragmentation and instability.

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