Composer

:

Heitor Villa-Lobos

Genre

:

Chamber

Style

:

Sextet

Compose Date

:

1917

Average_duration

:

7:50

Heitor Villa-Lobos composed the 'Sexteto místico, for flute, oboe, sax, harp, cello & guitar Mystic Sextet, A. 131' in 1917. The piece premiered in Rio de Janeiro in 1919, with the composer himself conducting. The sextet is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct character and mood. The first movement, marked Allegro, is lively and energetic. It begins with a rhythmic motif played by the guitar, which is then taken up by the other instruments. The flute and oboe play a playful melody, while the saxophone adds a jazzy touch. The harp and cello provide a lush, harmonic backdrop. The movement builds to a frenzied climax before ending abruptly. The second movement, marked Lento, is more introspective and contemplative. It begins with a haunting melody played by the saxophone, accompanied by the harp and guitar. The flute and oboe then enter with a mournful duet, while the cello adds a mournful counterpoint. The movement gradually builds in intensity before fading away into silence. The final movement, marked Vivo, is a lively dance in a Brazilian folk style. It begins with a rhythmic guitar ostinato, which is then joined by the other instruments. The flute and oboe play a lively melody, while the saxophone adds a playful counterpoint. The harp and cello provide a lush, harmonic backdrop. The movement builds to a frenzied climax before ending with a flourish. Overall, the 'Sexteto místico' is a vibrant and colorful work that showcases Villa-Lobos's unique blend of Brazilian folk music and European classical music. The use of saxophone and harp in a chamber music setting was innovative for its time and adds to the piece's distinctive sound. The three movements each have their own distinct character and mood, creating a rich and varied listening experience.

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