Composer

:

Francesco Pollini

Genre

:

Chamber

Style

:

Chamber Music

Average_duration

:

10:58

Francesco Pollini, an Italian composer, pianist, and harpist, composed the 'Capriccio and aria with variations, for harp in E flat major' in the early 19th century. The exact date of composition is unknown, but it is believed to have been written between 1810 and 1820. The piece was premiered in Milan, Italy, and quickly gained popularity among harpists. The 'Capriccio and aria with variations' is a two-movement work for solo harp. The first movement, the Capriccio, is a lively and virtuosic piece that showcases the harp's technical capabilities. It is characterized by rapid arpeggios, intricate fingerwork, and sudden dynamic changes. The Capriccio is in sonata form, with an exposition, development, and recapitulation. The exposition presents the main themes, which are then developed and transformed in the middle section. The recapitulation brings back the themes in their original form, with some variations and embellishments. The second movement, the Aria with variations, is a slower and more lyrical piece that contrasts with the Capriccio. It is based on a simple and elegant melody that is presented in the beginning and then varied in each subsequent variation. The variations range from delicate and ornamented to more complex and virtuosic. The Aria with variations is in theme and variations form, with each variation building on the previous one and leading to a final climax. Overall, the 'Capriccio and aria with variations' is a challenging and rewarding piece for harpists. It requires technical proficiency, musical sensitivity, and a deep understanding of the harp's capabilities. The piece showcases Pollini's skill as a composer and his love for the harp, which he played himself.

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