Composer

:

Jean-Henri d'Anglebert

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Keyboard

Publication Date

:

1689

Average_duration

:

3:03

Jean-Henri d'Anglebert was a French harpsichordist and composer who lived from 1629 to 1691. He was a prominent figure in the French Baroque music scene and was known for his keyboard compositions. One of his most famous works is "Les Songes agréables," a collection of pieces for harpsichord in G minor. "Les Songes agréables" was composed in the late 17th century and was first published in 1689. The collection consists of eight movements, each with its own unique character and style. The movements are titled as follows: 1. Prélude 2. Allemande 3. Courante 4. Sarabande 5. Gigue 6. Menuet 7. Gavotte 8. Chaconne The first movement, the Prélude, is a free-form piece that serves as an introduction to the collection. It features a virtuosic display of keyboard technique and sets the tone for the rest of the work. The second movement, the Allemande, is a dance in a moderate tempo. It features a flowing melody and intricate ornamentation, typical of the French Baroque style. The third movement, the Courante, is a lively dance in triple meter. It features a syncopated rhythm and a playful melody. The fourth movement, the Sarabande, is a slow and stately dance in triple meter. It features a melancholic melody and rich harmonies. The fifth movement, the Gigue, is a fast and lively dance in compound meter. It features a driving rhythm and a playful melody. The sixth movement, the Menuet, is a dance in moderate tempo. It features a graceful melody and elegant ornamentation. The seventh movement, the Gavotte, is a dance in moderate tempo. It features a lively melody and a playful character. The eighth and final movement, the Chaconne, is a set of variations on a repeating harmonic progression. It features a virtuosic display of keyboard technique and a grandiose character. Overall, "Les Songes agréables" is a masterful collection of keyboard music that showcases d'Anglebert's skill as a composer and harpsichordist. The collection is characterized by its intricate ornamentation, rich harmonies, and playful character. It remains a popular work in the harpsichord repertoire to this day.

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