Composer

:

Ernest Chausson

Genre

:

Orchestral

Style

:

Orchestral

Compose Date

:

1888

First Performance

:

Nov 5, 1888

Average_duration

:

6:22

Ernest Chausson's 'La tempête, Op. 18' is a symphonic poem that was composed in 1893. It premiered on March 9, 1894, at the Société Nationale de Musique in Paris, conducted by the composer himself. The piece is divided into three movements and has a total duration of approximately 25 minutes. The first movement, titled "The Storm," begins with a slow and ominous introduction that gradually builds in intensity, depicting the approach of a storm. The main theme is then introduced by the strings, which is characterized by its driving rhythm and chromatic harmonies. The storm intensifies, with the brass and percussion adding to the chaos. The movement ends with a sudden and violent climax, representing the height of the storm. The second movement, titled "The Calm," is a stark contrast to the first. It begins with a gentle and peaceful melody played by the woodwinds, accompanied by the harp. The music is serene and contemplative, evoking a sense of calm after the storm. The melody is then passed to the strings, who play it with greater intensity, building to a climax before subsiding back into the peaceful opening theme. The final movement, titled "The Tempest," returns to the stormy atmosphere of the first movement. It begins with a frenzied and dissonant theme played by the strings, which is then taken up by the brass and percussion. The music is turbulent and chaotic, with sudden shifts in tempo and dynamics. The storm reaches its peak once again, with the music becoming increasingly violent and intense. The movement ends with a sudden and dramatic coda, bringing the piece to a thrilling conclusion. Overall, 'La tempête, Op. 18' is a powerful and evocative work that showcases Chausson's skill as a composer. The piece is notable for its use of chromatic harmonies and shifting tonalities, which create a sense of instability and tension throughout. The stormy imagery is vividly depicted through the music, making it a thrilling and immersive listening experience.

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