Composer

:

Percy Grainger

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Keyboard

Compose Date

:

1906 - 1907

Publication Date

:

1989

Average_duration

:

1:45

"Died for Love" is a piano piece composed by Percy Grainger in 1909. The piece was premiered in London in 1910. It is a set of variations on the traditional English folk song "The True Lover's Farewell." The piece is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct character. The first movement is marked "With tender expression" and is a simple, lyrical statement of the folk song melody. Grainger's harmonies are lush and romantic, with a sense of longing and nostalgia. The second movement is marked "With great passion" and is a virtuosic tour-de-force. Grainger takes the folk song melody and transforms it into a series of dazzling variations, showcasing the pianist's technical prowess. The harmonies become more complex and dissonant, reflecting the intensity of the emotions being expressed. The third movement is marked "With simplicity and tenderness" and returns to the simple, lyrical character of the opening. Grainger uses a variety of textures and dynamics to create a sense of depth and richness. The piece ends with a quiet, introspective coda that brings the work to a gentle close. Overall, "Died for Love" is a beautiful and expressive work that showcases Grainger's skill as a composer and pianist. The piece is notable for its use of folk song material, which was a hallmark of Grainger's style. The variations are inventive and varied, showcasing a wide range of moods and emotions. The work is a testament to Grainger's love of English folk music and his ability to transform it into something new and exciting.

More....