Composer

:

Gabriel Fauré

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Compose Date

:

1863

Publication Date

:

1879

Average_duration

:

2:57

Gabriel Fauré's 'Puisqu'ici-Bas, Op. 10/1' is a song cycle composed in 1871. The premiere of the piece was in 1872, performed by the composer himself on the piano and a singer named Pauline Viardot. The song cycle consists of three movements, each with its own unique characteristics. The first movement, 'Puisqu'ici-Bas,' is a melancholic and introspective piece. The piano accompaniment is sparse and delicate, allowing the singer's voice to take center stage. The lyrics, written by Sully Prudhomme, explore the fleeting nature of life and the inevitability of death. Fauré's music perfectly captures the somber mood of the text, with the melody rising and falling in a mournful, almost sighing, manner. The second movement, 'Au Cimetière,' is a haunting and atmospheric piece. The piano accompaniment is more prominent in this movement, creating a sense of foreboding and unease. The lyrics, also written by Sully Prudhomme, describe a visit to a cemetery and the emotions that arise when faced with the reality of death. Fauré's music perfectly captures the eerie and unsettling atmosphere of the text, with the piano and voice weaving together in a haunting melody. The final movement, 'La Chanson du Pêcheur,' is a more upbeat and lively piece. The piano accompaniment is more energetic, with a playful and rhythmic melody. The lyrics, written by Charles Baudelaire, describe a fisherman's love for the sea and the freedom it represents. Fauré's music perfectly captures the joy and exuberance of the text, with the melody rising and falling in a lively and playful manner. Overall, 'Puisqu'ici-Bas, Op. 10/1' is a beautiful and poignant song cycle that showcases Fauré's mastery of melody and emotion. The three movements each have their own unique characteristics, but together they create a cohesive and powerful work of art.

More....