Composer

:

Gabriel Fauré

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Madrigal

Compose Date

:

Dec 1, 1883

Publication Date

:

1884

Average_duration

:

4:01

Gabriel Fauré's Madrigal, Op. 35 is a choral work for four-part mixed voices, composed in 1883. It was premiered on May 21, 1884, by the Société Nationale de Musique in Paris, conducted by Charles Lamoureux. The piece consists of three movements, each with its own distinct character and mood. The first movement, marked Allegro moderato, is in a lively and energetic 6/8 time signature. The opening phrase is sung by the sopranos, followed by the altos, tenors, and basses in turn. The voices weave in and out of each other, creating a complex and intricate texture. The middle section of the movement is slower and more lyrical, with the voices singing in unison. The movement ends with a return to the lively opening theme. The second movement, marked Andante, is in a slower 4/4 time signature. It begins with a gentle and flowing melody sung by the sopranos, accompanied by a simple piano accompaniment. The other voices gradually join in, creating a rich and harmonious texture. The middle section of the movement is more dramatic, with the voices singing in a more forceful and passionate manner. The movement ends with a return to the gentle opening theme. The third movement, marked Allegretto, is in a lively 3/4 time signature. It begins with a playful and rhythmic melody sung by the sopranos, accompanied by a lively piano accompaniment. The other voices gradually join in, creating a joyful and exuberant texture. The middle section of the movement is more subdued, with the voices singing in a more contemplative and introspective manner. The movement ends with a return to the playful opening theme. Overall, Fauré's Madrigal, Op. 35 is a masterful example of his skill in writing for voices. The intricate and complex textures, combined with the rich and harmonious harmonies, create a work that is both beautiful and challenging to perform. The piece is a testament to Fauré's mastery of the choral form, and remains a beloved work in the choral repertoire to this day.

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