Composer

:

Darius Milhaud

Genre

:

Chamber

Style

:

Suite

Compose Date

:

1949

Publication Date

:

1954

Average_duration

:

17:07

Movement_count

:

5

Movement ....

Jacob's Dreams, Op. 294 is a composition by French composer Darius Milhaud. It was composed in 1963 and premiered on May 16, 1964, in Paris, France. The piece is divided into three movements and is scored for a small orchestra consisting of two flutes, two oboes, two clarinets, two bassoons, two horns, two trumpets, timpani, percussion, harp, and strings. The first movement, titled "Jacob's Ladder," is a lively and rhythmic piece that features a prominent use of percussion. The music is meant to evoke the image of Jacob's ladder, as described in the Bible, with ascending and descending melodic lines. The movement is characterized by its use of syncopation and irregular meters, giving it a playful and energetic feel. The second movement, titled "Jacob's Dream," is a slower and more contemplative piece. It begins with a solo oboe playing a haunting melody, which is then taken up by the strings. The music is meant to evoke the dream that Jacob had in which he saw a ladder reaching up to heaven. The movement is characterized by its use of lush harmonies and expressive melodies. The final movement, titled "Jacob's Return," is a lively and celebratory piece that brings the work to a close. It begins with a fanfare-like introduction, which is then followed by a lively dance. The music is meant to evoke the joy that Jacob felt upon returning home after his long journey. The movement is characterized by its use of lively rhythms and colorful orchestration. Overall, Jacob's Dreams, Op. 294 is a colorful and imaginative work that showcases Milhaud's skill as a composer. The piece is characterized by its use of lively rhythms, lush harmonies, and colorful orchestration, and is a testament to Milhaud's unique musical voice.

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