Composer

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Roy Harris

Genre

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Keyboard

Style

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Song

Average_duration

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2:10

American Ballads (10) for piano: No. 5, Cod Liver Oil is a composition by the American composer Roy Harris. The piece was composed in 1946 and premiered the same year. It is part of a larger collection of ten piano pieces, each of which is based on a traditional American folk song. The piece is characterized by its lively and playful nature, with a bouncy rhythm and jaunty melody. The use of syncopation and off-beat accents gives the piece a sense of energy and movement, while the use of repeated motifs and variations on the main theme create a sense of unity and coherence. The title of the piece, Cod Liver Oil, refers to a traditional folk song from Newfoundland, Canada, which tells the story of a man who is forced to take cod liver oil as a cure for his ailments. The melody of the folk song is incorporated into the composition, with Harris adding his own variations and embellishments to create a unique and original work. The piece is divided into three movements, each of which explores different aspects of the main theme. The first movement is marked Allegro, and features a lively and energetic melody that is repeated and developed throughout the movement. The second movement, marked Andante, is more subdued and introspective, with a slower tempo and more contemplative melody. The final movement, marked Allegro con brio, returns to the lively and playful character of the first movement, with a fast tempo and intricate rhythms. Overall, American Ballads (10) for piano: No. 5, Cod Liver Oil is a lively and engaging work that showcases Harris's skill as a composer and his ability to incorporate traditional folk melodies into his own unique style. Its playful character and infectious rhythms make it a popular choice for pianists and audiences alike.

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