Composer

:

Andor Foldes

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Suite

Compose Date

:

1947

Average_duration

:

10:05

The János Háry Suite (after Kodály) is a composition by Hungarian composer Andor Foldes. It is based on the opera János Háry by Zoltán Kodály, which was first performed in 1926. The suite was composed in 1954 and premiered in Budapest the same year. The suite consists of five movements, each of which is based on a different scene from the opera. The first movement, "The Recruiting Officer," is a lively and energetic piece that captures the excitement and chaos of a military recruitment drive. The second movement, "The Battle," is a dramatic and intense piece that depicts a fierce battle between the Hungarian and Austrian armies. The third movement, "The Lament of János Háry," is a hauntingly beautiful piece that features a solo violin and captures the sadness and despair of the main character as he reflects on his life and the choices he has made. The fourth movement, "The Wedding," is a joyful and celebratory piece that features a lively dance rhythm and captures the festive atmosphere of a traditional Hungarian wedding. The final movement, "The Escape," is a fast-paced and exciting piece that depicts János Háry's daring escape from the Austrian army. It features a driving rhythm and a sense of urgency that builds to a thrilling climax. Overall, the János Háry Suite (after Kodály) is a masterful composition that captures the spirit and energy of Kodály's opera while also showcasing Foldes' own unique style and musical voice. It is a testament to the enduring power and influence of Hungarian folk music and culture, and a fitting tribute to two of Hungary's greatest composers.

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