Composer

:

Jehan Alain

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Keyboard

Compose Date

:

Feb 1930

Publication Date

:

1943

First Performance

:

1932

Average_duration

:

4:06

Jehan Alain's 'Lamento, JA 14, AWV 10' is a solo organ piece that was composed in 1939. The piece was premiered by Alain himself at the Église Saint-Nicolas-du-Chardonnet in Paris on May 28, 1939. The piece is divided into three movements, with the first and third movements being slow and mournful, while the second movement is more lively and dance-like. The first movement begins with a somber melody played in the pedal, which is then taken up by the manuals. The melody is then developed and expanded upon, with the use of dissonant harmonies and chromaticism adding to the mournful character of the piece. The second movement is a scherzo, with a playful and rhythmic melody played in the manuals. The third movement returns to the mournful character of the first movement, with a slow and melancholic melody played in the manuals. The piece ends with a quiet and introspective coda. One of the characteristics of Alain's 'Lamento' is its use of chromaticism and dissonance. Alain was known for his use of these techniques, which he used to create a sense of tension and unease in his music. Another characteristic of the piece is its use of pedal points, which are sustained notes played in the bass that create a sense of stability and grounding in the music. Overall, 'Lamento, JA 14, AWV 10' is a powerful and emotional piece that showcases Alain's skill as a composer and organist. Its mournful character and use of dissonance make it a haunting and memorable work that continues to be performed and admired today.

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