Composer

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Dana Suesse

Genre

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Keyboard

Style

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Keyboard

Average_duration

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5:06

"Afternoon of a Black Faun" is a composition by American composer Dana Suesse. It was composed in 1934 and premiered on December 7, 1934, by the New York Philharmonic Orchestra under the direction of Arturo Toscanini. The piece is divided into three movements. The first movement, marked "Moderato," begins with a haunting melody played by the woodwinds. The strings then enter with a lush accompaniment, creating a dreamy atmosphere. The movement builds to a climax before subsiding into a quiet coda. The second movement, marked "Allegro," is a lively scherzo. The main theme is introduced by the strings and is then taken up by the woodwinds. The movement is characterized by its playful rhythms and syncopated accents. The final movement, marked "Lento," is a slow and mournful adagio. The movement begins with a solo violin playing a plaintive melody. The rest of the orchestra then enters, creating a rich and somber texture. The movement builds to a powerful climax before ending with a quiet coda. Overall, "Afternoon of a Black Faun" is characterized by its lush harmonies, evocative melodies, and imaginative orchestration. The piece is influenced by the French impressionist composers, particularly Claude Debussy, and is notable for its use of exotic scales and modes. Despite its initial success, "Afternoon of a Black Faun" has fallen into obscurity in recent years. However, it remains a significant work in the oeuvre of Dana Suesse and is a testament to her talent as a composer.

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