Composer

:

Henry Cowell

Genre

:

Keyboard

Compose Date

:

October 2, 1928

Publication Date

:

1982

Average_duration

:

3:36

"The Fairy Bells" is a solo piano piece composed by Henry Cowell in 1929. It premiered on March 10, 1930, at the New School for Social Research in New York City. The piece is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct characteristics. The first movement, marked "Moderato," begins with a simple melody played in the right hand while the left hand plays a series of arpeggios. The melody is then repeated with variations, and the arpeggios become more complex. The movement ends with a return to the simple melody. The second movement, marked "Allegretto," is more playful and whimsical than the first. It begins with a series of staccato chords in the left hand while the right hand plays a melody that jumps around the keyboard. The melody is then repeated with variations, and the left hand joins in with a playful counterpoint. The movement ends with a series of descending chords. The third movement, marked "Andante," is the most contemplative of the three. It begins with a simple melody played in the right hand while the left hand plays a series of chords. The melody is then repeated with variations, and the chords become more complex. The movement ends with a return to the simple melody. Overall, "The Fairy Bells" is a charming and whimsical piece that showcases Cowell's unique approach to piano composition. The use of arpeggios, counterpoint, and variations on simple melodies are all hallmarks of Cowell's style. The piece is also notable for its use of unconventional techniques, such as playing the piano strings directly with the fingers or using the forearm to play clusters of notes.

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