Composer

:

George Crumb

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Suite

Compose Date

:

1980

Average_duration

:

14:32

Movement_count

:

7

Movement ....

George Crumb's "A Little Suite for Christmas, A.D. 1979" is a four-movement work for piano that was composed in 1979. The piece was premiered on December 16, 1979, by the pianist Lambert Orkis at the Library of Congress in Washington, D.C. The first movement, "The Visitation," is a gentle and contemplative piece that features a simple melody in the right hand accompanied by a series of soft, rolling chords in the left hand. The second movement, "Berceuse for the Infant Jesu," is a lullaby that is characterized by its delicate, ethereal quality. The third movement, "The Shepherd's Noël," is a lively and rhythmic piece that evokes the joy and excitement of the Christmas season. The final movement, "Adoration of the Magi," is a slow and meditative piece that features a haunting melody in the right hand accompanied by a series of rich, sonorous chords in the left hand. One of the most striking characteristics of "A Little Suite for Christmas, A.D. 1979" is its use of extended techniques. Throughout the piece, Crumb employs a variety of unconventional playing techniques, such as plucking the strings inside the piano, muting the strings with the palm of the hand, and using the sustain pedal to create a shimmering, atmospheric effect. These techniques give the piece a unique and otherworldly quality that is perfectly suited to the mystical and spiritual themes of the Christmas season. Overall, "A Little Suite for Christmas, A.D. 1979" is a beautiful and evocative work that captures the wonder and magic of the holiday season. Its delicate melodies, rich harmonies, and unconventional playing techniques make it a truly unique and memorable addition to the piano repertoire.

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