Composer

:

Jules Massenet

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Compose Date

:

1892

Publication Date

:

1896

Average_duration

:

2:50

'Plus vite' is a piano piece composed by Jules Massenet, a French composer known for his operas. The piece was composed in 1889 and premiered the same year in Paris. It is a part of a collection of piano pieces titled 'Pièces de genre' which includes other works such as 'Valse folle' and 'Impromptu'. 'Plus vite' is a lively and energetic piece that is characterized by its fast tempo and virtuosic passages. The piece is in the key of A major and is written in a binary form, with two distinct sections that are repeated. The first section is marked 'Allegro con fuoco' and features a series of rapid arpeggios and scales that are played with great intensity. The second section is marked 'Più lento' and is more lyrical in nature, with a melody that is played in the right hand over a simple accompaniment in the left hand. One of the most notable characteristics of 'Plus vite' is its use of chromaticism, which is the use of notes that are not part of the key signature. This creates a sense of tension and instability in the music, which is then resolved through the use of traditional harmonic progressions. The piece also features a number of technical challenges for the pianist, including rapid octave passages and complex fingerings. Overall, 'Plus vite' is a dynamic and exciting piece that showcases Massenet's skill as a composer and his ability to write music that is both technically demanding and musically engaging. Its premiere in Paris was well-received, and the piece continues to be performed and enjoyed by pianists and audiences around the world.

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