Composer

:

César Franck

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Keyboard

Compose Date

:

1873

Publication Date

:

ca. 1873

Average_duration

:

10:30

Movement_count

:

3

Movement ....

César Franck's 'Prélude, fugue, et variations, for piano & harmonium in B minor, Op. 18, M. 30a' was composed in 1862 and premiered on January 22, 1863, at the Salle Pleyel in Paris. The piece consists of three movements: a prelude, a fugue, and variations. The prelude is marked by a slow and melancholic melody played on the harmonium, which is then taken up by the piano. The harmonium and piano alternate in playing the melody, creating a sense of dialogue between the two instruments. The prelude ends with a quiet and introspective coda. The fugue is a complex and intricate piece, with the theme introduced by the harmonium and then taken up by the piano. The theme is then developed and elaborated upon, with the two instruments engaging in a lively and intricate interplay. The fugue reaches a climax with a powerful and dramatic section before resolving into a quiet and reflective coda. The variations are based on a simple and lyrical theme, which is first introduced by the piano. The harmonium then takes up the theme, and the two instruments engage in a series of variations, each one exploring different aspects of the melody. The variations range from delicate and introspective to lively and virtuosic, with the harmonium and piano engaging in a lively and intricate interplay throughout. Overall, 'Prélude, fugue, et variations, for piano & harmonium in B minor, Op. 18, M. 30a' is a complex and intricate piece, showcasing Franck's mastery of counterpoint and his ability to create a sense of dialogue between two very different instruments. The piece is marked by a sense of introspection and reflection, with each movement exploring different aspects of the same themes and melodies.

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