Composer

:

César Franck

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Chorale

Compose Date

:

1884

Publication Date

:

1885

Average_duration

:

19:15

Movement_count

:

3

Movement ....

César Franck's 'Prélude, choral, et fugue, M. 21' is a three-movement work for solo piano. It was composed in 1884 and premiered on January 22, 1885, in Paris. The piece is considered one of Franck's most significant works for the piano and is often performed in recitals and competitions. The first movement, the Prelude, is marked Allegretto moderato and is in the key of F-sharp minor. It begins with a simple, melancholic melody in the right hand, accompanied by a flowing arpeggio in the left. The melody is then repeated with added harmonies and a more complex accompaniment. The middle section of the Prelude is more agitated, with a faster tempo and a more dissonant harmony. The movement ends with a return to the opening melody, now played with greater intensity and passion. The second movement, the Choral, is marked Andantino and is in the key of B minor. It is a slow, meditative piece that is based on a hymn-like melody. The Choral is characterized by its rich harmonies and the use of pedal to create a sustained, organ-like sound. The melody is repeated several times, each time with added harmonies and variations. The movement ends with a quiet, peaceful coda. The final movement, the Fugue, is marked Allegro moderato and is in the key of F-sharp minor. It is a complex, contrapuntal piece that is based on a single theme. The theme is introduced in the right hand and is then imitated by the left hand and other voices. The Fugue builds in intensity and complexity, with the theme being developed and transformed in various ways. The movement reaches a climax with a powerful statement of the theme in the bass register. The Fugue then gradually winds down, with the theme being played in reverse order and the movement ending with a quiet, contemplative coda. Overall, 'Prélude, choral, et fugue, M. 21' is a masterful work that showcases Franck's skill as a composer and his ability to create complex, multi-layered textures. The piece is characterized by its rich harmonies, use of pedal, and contrapuntal writing. It is a challenging work for pianists, requiring both technical skill and musical sensitivity.

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