Composer

:

Joaquín Rodrigo

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Song

Compose Date

:

1947

First Performance

:

Feb 4, 1948

Average_duration

:

2:16

"Con qué la lavaré" is a Spanish folk song that was arranged for voice and piano by Joaquín Rodrigo in 1958. The piece was premiered in Madrid on May 22, 1958, by the Spanish soprano Victoria de los Ángeles. The song is part of a collection of traditional Spanish songs that Rodrigo arranged for voice and piano, titled "Canciones españolas antiguas." The collection includes songs from different regions of Spain, and Rodrigo's arrangements aim to preserve the original melodies and harmonies while adding his own personal touch. "Con qué la lavaré" is a popular song from the region of Murcia, in southeastern Spain. The lyrics tell the story of a woman who is trying to wash her white clothes, but she cannot find anything pure enough to use as soap. She asks the moon, the sun, and the wind for help, but they all refuse. Finally, she decides to use her own tears to wash her clothes, as they are the only pure thing she has. The piece is divided into three sections, each with a different tempo and mood. The first section is slow and melancholic, with a simple piano accompaniment that evokes the woman's sadness and desperation. The second section is faster and more rhythmic, with a lively piano accompaniment that represents the woman's search for a solution. The third section is slower again, with a more complex piano accompaniment that reflects the woman's decision to use her tears. Rodrigo's arrangement of "Con qué la lavaré" is characterized by his use of rich harmonies and expressive melodies. He also adds some subtle variations to the original melody, which enhance the emotional impact of the lyrics. The piano accompaniment is also an important element of the piece, as it provides a contrast to the vocal line and adds depth and texture to the overall sound. Overall, "Con qué la lavaré" is a beautiful and poignant piece that showcases Rodrigo's talent as a composer and arranger. Its emotional depth and musical complexity make it a favorite among singers and audiences alike, and it remains a beloved example of Spanish art song.

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