Composer

:

Harry Somers

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Chanson

Compose Date

:

1977

Average_duration

:

20:37

Movement_count

:

3

Movement ....

'Chansons (3) de la Nouvelle-France' is a composition by Canadian composer Harry Somers. The piece was composed in 1952 and premiered on May 7, 1953, at the Royal Conservatory of Music in Toronto. The composition consists of three movements, each based on a traditional French-Canadian folk song. The first movement, "À Saint-Malo," is a lively and rhythmic song that tells the story of a sailor who longs to return to his hometown of Saint-Malo. The music is characterized by its use of syncopated rhythms and lively dance-like melodies. The second movement, "J'ai cueilli la belle rose," is a slower and more contemplative piece that tells the story of a young woman who picks a beautiful rose, only to have it wither and die in her hand. The music is characterized by its use of lush harmonies and expressive melodies. The third movement, "À la claire fontaine," is a well-known French-Canadian folk song that tells the story of a young man who laments the loss of his love. The music is characterized by its use of simple, yet poignant melodies and harmonies. Overall, 'Chansons (3) de la Nouvelle-France' is a beautiful and evocative tribute to the rich cultural heritage of French-Canadian folk music. The piece showcases Somers' skill as a composer, as well as his deep appreciation for the music and traditions of his homeland.

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