Composer

:

Darius Milhaud

Genre

:

Chamber

Style

:

Chamber Music

Compose Date

:

1945

Publication Date

:

1946

Average_duration

:

4:16

Darius Milhaud's 'Elégie, Op. 251' is a solo piano piece that was composed in 1957. The piece was premiered on May 7, 1958, in Paris, France, by the pianist Yvonne Loriod. The composition is divided into three movements, each with its own unique characteristics. The first movement, marked "Lent," is a mournful and introspective elegy. The piece begins with a simple, melancholic melody played in the right hand, accompanied by a sparse and somber left-hand accompaniment. The melody is then developed and expanded upon, with the left hand providing a more complex and harmonically rich accompaniment. The movement ends with a return to the original melody, played softly and with great tenderness. The second movement, marked "Vif," is a lively and playful scherzo. The piece begins with a fast and rhythmic melody played in the right hand, accompanied by a syncopated left-hand accompaniment. The melody is then developed and expanded upon, with the left hand providing a more complex and virtuosic accompaniment. The movement ends with a return to the original melody, played with great energy and excitement. The third and final movement, marked "Lent," is a return to the mournful and introspective mood of the first movement. The piece begins with a simple and haunting melody played in the right hand, accompanied by a sparse and ethereal left-hand accompaniment. The melody is then developed and expanded upon, with the left hand providing a more complex and harmonically rich accompaniment. The movement ends with a return to the original melody, played softly and with great tenderness. Overall, 'Elégie, Op. 251' is a deeply emotional and introspective work that showcases Milhaud's mastery of both melody and harmony. The piece is characterized by its mournful and introspective mood, as well as its use of simple yet powerful melodies and harmonies. The contrast between the mournful first and third movements and the lively and playful second movement adds to the emotional depth and complexity of the piece.

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