Composer

:

César Franck

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Tone Poem

Compose Date

:

1887 - 1888

Publication Date

:

1903

Average_duration

:

50:15

Movement_count

:

8

Movement ....

Psyché, M. 47 is a symphonic poem composed by César Franck in 1888. It was premiered on April 29, 1888, at the Société Nationale de Musique in Paris, conducted by Charles Lamoureux. The piece is divided into three movements and is approximately 22 minutes in length. The first movement, titled "Psyché et Eros," begins with a slow and mysterious introduction, featuring the harp and strings. The main theme is then introduced by the oboe, which is later taken up by the full orchestra. The music is delicate and ethereal, evoking the mythical world of Psyché and Eros. The movement builds to a climax before subsiding into a quiet coda. The second movement, titled "Psyché et le sommeil," is a slow and dreamy interlude. The music is characterized by a gentle rocking motion, with the strings and woodwinds playing a prominent role. The harp is featured prominently, adding to the dreamlike quality of the music. The movement ends quietly, leading directly into the final movement. The third movement, titled "Psyché et la danse," is a lively and energetic dance. The music is characterized by a driving rhythm and features a prominent role for the brass and percussion. The main theme is introduced by the strings and is later taken up by the full orchestra. The music builds to a frenzied climax before subsiding into a quiet coda. Overall, Psyché, M. 47 is a lush and evocative work, showcasing Franck's skill as an orchestrator. The piece is notable for its use of delicate textures and ethereal harmonies, as well as its dramatic contrasts between the slow and dreamy second movement and the lively and energetic third movement.

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