Composer

:

Claude-Bénigne Balbastre

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Suite

Average_duration

:

13:43

Claude-Bénigne Balbastre was a French composer, harpsichordist, and organist who lived from 1724 to 1799. He was known for his keyboard music, particularly his suites of Noëls, which were collections of Christmas carols arranged for the harpsichord or organ. One of his most famous works is the Suite de Noëls No. 3, which was composed in the mid-18th century. The Suite de Noëls No. 3 is a collection of nine pieces, each based on a different Christmas carol. The suite was composed for the harpsichord, but it can also be played on the organ. The movements are as follows: 1. Ouverture: This movement is in the style of a French overture, with a slow, majestic opening followed by a faster, more lively section. 2. Joseph est bien marié: This movement is a lively dance based on the carol "Joseph est bien marié." 3. La Marche des Rois: This movement is a stately march based on the carol "La Marche des Rois." 4. Noël: This movement is a gentle, lyrical piece based on the carol "Noël." 5. La Nativité: This movement is a slow, contemplative piece based on the carol "La Nativité." 6. Joseph est bien marié (Variation): This movement is a variation on the second movement, with a more complex and ornate melody. 7. Noël (Variation): This movement is a variation on the fourth movement, with a more elaborate and virtuosic keyboard part. 8. La Nativité (Variation): This movement is a variation on the fifth movement, with a more intricate and ornamented melody. 9. Tambourin: This movement is a lively dance based on the carol "Tambourin." The Suite de Noëls No. 3 is characterized by its lively dance rhythms, ornate melodies, and virtuosic keyboard writing. Balbastre was known for his skill as an improviser, and many of the movements in this suite feature elaborate ornamentation and embellishment. The suite was likely composed for performance in the home, as a way for amateur musicians to entertain their guests during the Christmas season. The Suite de Noëls No. 3 premiered in the mid-18th century, and it has remained a popular work in the harpsichord and organ repertoire ever since. Its joyful, festive character and its association with the Christmas season have made it a beloved work among audiences and performers alike.

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