Composer

:

César Franck

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Song: Art Song

Compose Date

:

1884

Publication Date

:

1900

Average_duration

:

4:04

César Franck's Nocturne, M. 85 is a solo piano piece that was composed in 1885. It was premiered on January 31, 1885, by the composer himself at a concert in Paris. The piece is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct characteristics. The first movement is marked "Andantino," and it begins with a gentle, flowing melody in the right hand. The left hand provides a simple accompaniment, and the two hands alternate in playing the melody. The mood is peaceful and introspective, with a sense of longing and nostalgia. As the movement progresses, the melody becomes more complex and the harmonies more richly textured, building to a climax before subsiding into a quiet, reflective coda. The second movement is marked "Allegretto moderato," and it is more lively and playful than the first. The right hand plays a sprightly melody that is echoed by the left hand, and the two hands engage in a lively dialogue throughout the movement. The harmonies are more adventurous than in the first movement, with unexpected modulations and chromaticism adding to the sense of playfulness. The movement ends with a flourish, as the two hands come together in a final, joyful chord. The third movement is marked "Andantino con moto," and it is the most complex and emotionally intense of the three. The right hand plays a haunting melody that is accompanied by a series of arpeggios in the left hand. The harmonies are more dissonant than in the previous movements, and the mood is more introspective and melancholy. As the movement progresses, the melody becomes more complex and the harmonies more dense, building to a powerful climax before subsiding into a quiet, reflective coda. Overall, Nocturne, M. 85 is a beautiful and evocative piece of music that showcases Franck's skill as a composer. The three movements each have their own distinct characteristics, but they are united by a sense of introspection and emotional depth. The piece is a testament to Franck's ability to create music that is both technically complex and emotionally resonant.

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