Composer

:

Zoltán Kodály

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Meditation

Compose Date

:

1907

Publication Date

:

1925

Average_duration

:

5:44

Zoltán Kodály's "Meditation sur un motif de Claude Debussy" is a solo piano piece that was composed in 1920. The piece was premiered in Budapest in the same year by the composer himself. The piece is divided into three movements, each with its own unique characteristics. The first movement, marked "Andante con moto," begins with a simple, yet haunting melody that is based on a motif from Debussy's "La cathédrale engloutie." The melody is played in the right hand while the left hand provides a gentle accompaniment. The movement gradually builds in intensity, with the melody becoming more complex and the accompaniment becoming more active. The movement ends with a return to the simple melody from the beginning. The second movement, marked "Lento," is a stark contrast to the first. It begins with a series of dissonant chords that create a sense of tension and unease. The melody is fragmented and disjointed, with the left hand providing a sparse accompaniment. The movement gradually builds in intensity, with the melody becoming more complex and the accompaniment becoming more active. The movement ends with a return to the dissonant chords from the beginning. The third movement, marked "Andante," is a return to the simplicity of the first movement. The melody is once again based on the motif from Debussy's "La cathédrale engloutie," but this time it is played in a more contemplative and introspective manner. The left hand provides a gentle accompaniment that supports the melody without overpowering it. The movement ends with a quiet and peaceful resolution. Overall, "Meditation sur un motif de Claude Debussy" is a beautiful and introspective piece that showcases Kodály's skill as a composer. The use of Debussy's motif adds an extra layer of depth and meaning to the piece, while the three movements provide a sense of progression and development.

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