Composer

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Agathe Backer-Grøndahl

Genre

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Vocal

Style

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Song

Agathe Backer-Grøndahl was a Norwegian composer and pianist who lived from 1847 to 1907. She was one of the most prominent female composers of her time and was known for her lyrical and expressive piano music. One of her most famous works is "Aften er stille, Op. 3/1," which translates to "Evening is Quiet." Backer-Grøndahl composed "Aften er stille" in 1875, when she was just 28 years old. The piece is part of a collection of six piano pieces called "Billeder fra Ungdommen" (Pictures from Youth), which she composed during her early years as a composer. "Aften er stille" is the first piece in the collection and is considered one of her most beautiful and evocative works. The piece premiered in Oslo in 1876, and it quickly became popular among Norwegian audiences. It has since been performed and recorded by many pianists around the world. "Aften er stille" is a slow and contemplative piece that captures the peacefulness and stillness of a quiet evening. It is written in the key of E-flat major and has a simple, flowing melody that is accompanied by gentle arpeggios in the left hand. The piece is marked "Andante con moto" (slowly, with motion), which gives it a sense of movement and direction despite its peacefulness. The piece is divided into three main sections, each with its own distinct character. The first section is the main theme, which is repeated several times throughout the piece. The second section is more dramatic and intense, with a faster tempo and more complex harmonies. The third section returns to the peacefulness of the opening theme, but with a slightly different melody and a more elaborate accompaniment. Overall, "Aften er stille" is a beautiful and expressive piece that showcases Backer-Grøndahl's talent for creating lyrical and evocative piano music. Its popularity has endured for over a century, and it remains a beloved work in the piano repertoire.

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