Composer

:

César Franck

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Song: Art Song

Compose Date

:

1842 - 1843

Publication Date

:

1862

Average_duration

:

3:30

César Franck's 'Souvenance, M. 70' is a chamber work for violin, cello, and piano. It was composed in 1887, the same year as his famous 'Sonata for Violin and Piano'. The piece was premiered on January 22, 1888, at the Société Nationale de Musique in Paris, with the composer himself on the piano, accompanied by violinist Eugène Ysaÿe and cellist Jules Delsart. The work is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct character. The first movement, marked Allegretto moderato, begins with a gentle, flowing melody in the piano, which is soon joined by the violin and cello. The music builds in intensity, with the instruments passing the melody back and forth, before subsiding into a quiet, reflective coda. The second movement, marked Allegro molto, is a lively scherzo, with a playful, syncopated rhythm. The piano takes the lead, with the violin and cello providing a lively accompaniment. The middle section of the movement is more lyrical, with a soaring melody in the violin, before returning to the playful scherzo theme. The final movement, marked Andante molto, is the most introspective of the three. It begins with a mournful melody in the cello, accompanied by the piano. The violin joins in, and the music builds in intensity, with the instruments trading off the melody. The movement ends with a quiet, contemplative coda. Overall, 'Souvenance, M. 70' is a beautiful and introspective work, showcasing Franck's mastery of chamber music. The piece is characterized by its lyrical melodies, lush harmonies, and intricate interplay between the three instruments. It is a testament to Franck's skill as a composer, and remains a beloved work in the chamber music repertoire.

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