Composer

:

Claude-Bénigne Balbastre

Genre

:

Orchestral

Style

:

Suite

Average_duration

:

11:56

Claude-Bénigne Balbastre was a French composer and organist who lived from 1724 to 1799. He was known for his keyboard music, particularly his suites of Noëls, which were collections of Christmas carols arranged for the organ. Suite de Noëls No. 4 is one of his most famous works in this genre. The Suite de Noëls No. 4 was composed in the mid-18th century, although the exact date is unknown. It was likely premiered in a church or cathedral in France during the Christmas season. The suite consists of nine movements, each based on a different Christmas carol. The first movement, "Joseph est bien marié," is a lively and joyful piece in 6/8 time. It features a playful melody in the right hand and a steady accompaniment in the left hand. The second movement, "Noël pour l'amour de Marie," is a slower and more contemplative piece in 3/4 time. It features a simple melody in the right hand and a gentle accompaniment in the left hand. The third movement, "Noël étranger," is a lively and rhythmic piece in 2/4 time. It features a syncopated melody in the right hand and a driving accompaniment in the left hand. The fourth movement, "Joseph est bien marié (bis)," is a variation on the first movement, with a slightly different melody and accompaniment. The fifth movement, "Noël suisse," is a lively and energetic piece in 6/8 time. It features a fast and intricate melody in the right hand and a driving accompaniment in the left hand. The sixth movement, "Noël sur les jeux d'anches," is a slower and more contemplative piece in 3/4 time. It features a simple melody in the right hand and a gentle accompaniment in the left hand. The seventh movement, "Noël provençal," is a lively and rhythmic piece in 2/4 time. It features a syncopated melody in the right hand and a driving accompaniment in the left hand. The eighth movement, "Noël d'Aquin," is a variation on the fifth movement, with a slightly different melody and accompaniment. The final movement, "Noël en dialogue," is a lively and joyful piece in 6/8 time. It features a call-and-response between the right and left hands, with each hand playing a different melody. The piece ends with a triumphant flourish. Overall, the Suite de Noëls No. 4 is a charming and delightful collection of Christmas carols arranged for the organ. Balbastre's skillful use of rhythm, melody, and harmony creates a festive and joyful atmosphere that is perfect for the holiday season.

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