Composer

:

Camille Saint-Saëns

Genre

:

Chamber

Style

:

Sonata

Compose Date

:

1921

Average_duration

:

11:23

Movement_count

:

3

Movement ....

The 'Sonata for oboe & piano in D major, Op. 166' is a chamber music piece composed by the French composer Camille Saint-Saëns. It was composed in 1921, during the last years of the composer's life, and premiered on January 26, 1922, in Paris, with the composer himself at the piano and the oboist Georges Gillet. The sonata is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct character and mood. The first movement, marked 'Andantino', is a lyrical and expressive piece, with a flowing melody that is passed back and forth between the oboe and the piano. The second movement, marked 'Ad libitum - Allegretto', is a playful and whimsical scherzo, with a lively and syncopated rhythm that showcases the virtuosity of both the oboe and the piano. The final movement, marked 'Molto allegro', is a fast and energetic piece, with a lively and rhythmic theme that is developed throughout the movement, leading to a thrilling and triumphant conclusion. The sonata is characterized by Saint-Saëns' signature style, which combines elements of classical form with a romantic sensibility and a virtuosic flair. The oboe and piano are treated as equal partners, with each instrument given its own moments to shine and contribute to the overall musical texture. The sonata is also notable for its use of chromatic harmonies and unexpected modulations, which add a sense of tension and drama to the music. Overall, the 'Sonata for oboe & piano in D major, Op. 166' is a masterful example of Saint-Saëns' late style, showcasing his skill as a composer and his deep understanding of the capabilities of the oboe and piano. It remains a beloved and frequently performed work in the chamber music repertoire.

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