Composer

:

Charles Koechlin

Genre

:

Chamber

Style

:

Chanson

Compose Date

:

1931 - 1932

Average_duration

:

29:50

Movement_count

:

21

Movement ....

Chansons Bretonnes, Op. 115 is a collection of six songs composed by Charles Koechlin in 1941. The work was premiered in Paris on May 22, 1942, with the composer conducting. The songs are based on traditional Breton folk melodies, which Koechlin arranged for voice and piano. The first movement, "Le Roi d'Ys," is a lively and rhythmic song that tells the story of the legendary king of the city of Ys. The second movement, "La Belle S'est Endormie," is a gentle lullaby that features a simple and soothing melody. The third movement, "Le Soir Tombe," is a melancholic song that evokes the feeling of a quiet evening in the countryside. The fourth movement, "Le Chant des Oiseaux," is a playful and whimsical song that imitates the sounds of birds. The fifth movement, "Le Mariage Anglais," is a lively dance that celebrates a traditional English wedding. The final movement, "Le Rossignol," is a beautiful and lyrical song that tells the story of a nightingale singing in the moonlight. Koechlin's arrangements of these traditional Breton melodies are characterized by his use of rich harmonies and colorful textures. He often employs unusual chord progressions and unexpected modulations, which give the songs a unique and modern sound. Despite these modern touches, Koechlin's arrangements remain faithful to the original melodies, which he treats with great respect and sensitivity. Overall, Chansons Bretonnes, Op. 115 is a charming and delightful collection of songs that showcases Koechlin's skill as an arranger and his love for traditional folk music.

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