Composer

:

Oskar Merikanto

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Keyboard

Compose Date

:

1883

Publication Date

:

1895

Average_duration

:

3:44

Kesäillan Valssi, Op. 1 is a waltz composed by Oskar Merikanto, a Finnish composer, pianist, and conductor. The piece was composed in 1888 when Merikanto was only 18 years old. It premiered on August 25, 1888, at the Helsinki Music Institute, where Merikanto was studying at the time. The waltz consists of three movements, each with its own distinct character. The first movement is marked Allegro moderato and is in the key of G major. It begins with a lively and playful melody played by the strings, which is then taken up by the woodwinds. The melody is then repeated and developed throughout the movement, with the various sections of the orchestra taking turns playing it. The second movement is marked Andante and is in the key of E-flat major. It begins with a gentle and melancholic melody played by the strings, which is then taken up by the clarinet. The melody is then repeated and developed throughout the movement, with the various sections of the orchestra taking turns playing it. The movement ends with a soft and delicate coda played by the strings. The third movement is marked Allegro and is in the key of G major. It begins with a lively and energetic melody played by the strings, which is then taken up by the woodwinds. The melody is then repeated and developed throughout the movement, with the various sections of the orchestra taking turns playing it. The movement ends with a triumphant coda played by the full orchestra. Overall, Kesäillan Valssi, Op. 1 is a charming and delightful waltz that showcases Merikanto's talent for melody and orchestration. The piece is characterized by its playful and lively melodies, as well as its use of various sections of the orchestra to create a rich and varied sound. It remains one of Merikanto's most popular and beloved works, and is still frequently performed and recorded today.

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