Composer

:

Manuel de Falla

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Song

Compose Date

:

1927

Average_duration

:

2:43

Manuel de Falla's 'Soneto a Córdoba, G. 72' is a vocal work for soprano and piano, composed in 1927. The piece is based on a poem by the Spanish poet Luis de Góngora, which describes the beauty of the city of Córdoba. The work was premiered in Madrid in 1927, with the soprano Conchita Supervía and the composer himself at the piano. The piece is divided into three movements, each of which reflects a different aspect of the poem. The first movement is marked "Lento, misterioso", and begins with a haunting piano introduction that sets the mood for the entire piece. The soprano enters with a melody that is both lyrical and melancholic, and sings of the "white city" of Córdoba, with its "towers and battlements". The piano accompaniment is sparse and atmospheric, creating a sense of mystery and longing. The second movement is marked "Allegro vivo", and is more rhythmic and lively than the first. The soprano sings of the "fountains and gardens" of Córdoba, and the piano accompaniment is more complex and virtuosic, with rapid arpeggios and syncopated rhythms. The movement ends with a flourish, as the soprano sings of the "sun and moon" shining over the city. The final movement is marked "Lento, misterioso", like the first, and returns to the melancholic mood of the opening. The soprano sings of the "night and day" passing over Córdoba, and the piano accompaniment is once again sparse and atmospheric. The piece ends with a quiet, introspective coda, as the soprano sings of the "eternal love" that she feels for the city. Overall, 'Soneto a Córdoba' is a haunting and evocative work that captures the beauty and mystery of the city of Córdoba. Falla's use of sparse, atmospheric piano accompaniment and lyrical, melancholic melodies creates a sense of longing and nostalgia that perfectly complements Góngora's poem. The work is a testament to Falla's skill as a composer and his deep love for the music and poetry of his native Spain.

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