Composer

:

Claude-Bénigne Balbastre

Genre

:

Miscellaneous

Style

:

Miscellaneous

Average_duration

:

4:56

"Joseph est bien marié" is a popular French folk song that was arranged for harpsichord by Claude-Bénigne Balbastre in the late 18th century. The piece is a set of variations on the melody of the song, which tells the story of Joseph, a man who is happily married to his wife despite the fact that she is not wealthy or beautiful. Balbastre's arrangement of the song was likely composed in the 1770s or 1780s, during his tenure as organist at the church of Saint-Roch in Paris. The piece was likely intended for performance in the salon, rather than in a church or concert hall. The piece is composed of a series of variations on the melody of the song, each of which explores different aspects of the melody and its harmonies. The variations range in mood from playful and light-hearted to more serious and contemplative, and they showcase Balbastre's skill as a composer and performer. One of the most notable characteristics of Balbastre's arrangement of "Joseph est bien marié" is its use of ornamentation and embellishment. The piece is filled with trills, turns, and other decorative flourishes that add to its charm and elegance. Another characteristic of the piece is its use of syncopation and rhythmic variation. Balbastre frequently shifts the emphasis of the beat, creating a sense of tension and release that adds to the piece's emotional impact. Overall, "Joseph est bien marié" is a delightful and engaging piece of music that showcases Balbastre's skill as a composer and performer. Its popularity has endured for centuries, and it remains a beloved example of French harpsichord music to this day.

More....