Composer

:

Samuel Barber

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Song: Art Song

Compose Date

:

1947

Average_duration

:

4:55

"Nuvoletta, Op. 25" is a composition for soprano and piano by Samuel Barber. It was composed in 1947 and premiered on May 6, 1948, at the Library of Congress in Washington, D.C. The piece is based on a text by James Joyce from his novel "Finnegans Wake." The composition is divided into three movements, each of which is based on a different section of Joyce's text. The first movement, "Nuvoletta," is a setting of the opening lines of the novel. The second movement, "The Dream," is a setting of a dream sequence from the novel. The third movement, "The Hour," is a setting of a section of the novel that describes the passing of time. The characteristics of "Nuvoletta, Op. 25" are typical of Barber's style, which is characterized by its lyricism, emotional intensity, and use of tonal harmony. The piece is notable for its use of chromaticism and dissonance, which create a sense of tension and unease. The vocal line is highly expressive, with long, soaring phrases that showcase the soprano's range and agility. The piano accompaniment is equally expressive, with rich harmonies and intricate textures that support and complement the vocal line. Overall, "Nuvoletta, Op. 25" is a complex and challenging work that requires a high level of technical skill and interpretive nuance from both the soprano and the pianist. It is a testament to Barber's skill as a composer and his ability to create music that is both intellectually stimulating and emotionally powerful.

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