Composer

:

Maurice Ravel

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Chanson

Compose Date

:

1904

Average_duration

:

2:45

Maurice Ravel's "Chanson des cueilleuses de lentiques" is the fourth song in his collection of "Mélodies popularies grecques," which was composed in 1904. The premiere of the collection took place on May 14, 1904, at the Salle Érard in Paris, with the composer himself accompanying the singer, Jane Bathori. The song is based on a traditional Greek folk melody and features Ravel's signature impressionistic style. The piece is in the key of G minor and is written for voice and piano. The melody is simple and repetitive, with a haunting quality that is characteristic of Greek folk music. The song is divided into two distinct sections, each with its own character and mood. The first section is slow and mournful, with a sense of longing and sadness. The lyrics describe a group of women picking lentils in the fields, singing a song of love and loss. The melody is sparse, with the piano providing a simple accompaniment that emphasizes the melancholic mood. The second section of the song is faster and more lively, with a sense of joy and celebration. The lyrics describe the women dancing and singing, enjoying the beauty of the day and the company of their friends. The melody is more complex, with the piano providing a lively accompaniment that captures the energy and excitement of the scene. Overall, "Chanson des cueilleuses de lentiques" is a beautiful example of Ravel's ability to capture the essence of a traditional folk melody and infuse it with his own unique style. The piece is a testament to his skill as a composer and his love of the music of his native France and the world beyond.

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