Composer

:

Charles-Valentin Alkan

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Barcarolle

Compose Date

:

1866

Average_duration

:

3:56

Charles-Valentin Alkan's Barcarolle: Assez lentemente, Op. 65/6 is a solo piano piece that was composed in 1857. It was premiered in the same year in Paris, France. The piece is part of a set of twelve pieces that Alkan composed under the title "12 Etudes in All the Minor Keys, Op. 39". The Barcarolle is the sixth piece in the set and is characterized by its slow and flowing tempo, which is indicated by the marking "Assez lentemente" (quite slowly). The piece is written in the key of G minor and has a time signature of 6/8. The Barcarolle is a musical depiction of a Venetian gondola ride, which is reflected in the piece's flowing and undulating melody. The piece is divided into three distinct sections or movements. The first section features a gentle and lyrical melody that is played in the right hand, while the left hand provides a simple accompaniment. The second section is more complex and features a faster tempo and more intricate melody. The left hand provides a more active accompaniment, which adds to the piece's sense of movement and energy. The final section returns to the slower tempo of the first section and features a variation of the original melody. The piece ends with a gentle and peaceful coda that brings the piece to a close. Overall, Alkan's Barcarolle: Assez lentemente, Op. 65/6 is a beautiful and evocative piece of music that captures the essence of a Venetian gondola ride. Its flowing melody and gentle tempo make it a popular choice for pianists and music lovers alike.

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