Composer

:

Gustave Goublier

Genre

:

Miscellaneous

Style

:

Miscellaneous

Average_duration

:

5:01

L'Angélus de la mer is a symphonic poem composed by Gustave Goublier in 1890. The piece was premiered on May 11, 1890, at the Concerts Populaires in Paris, conducted by Charles Lamoureux. The symphonic poem is divided into three movements. The first movement, "Au large," begins with a slow and mysterious introduction, depicting the vastness of the sea. The music gradually builds up to a lively and energetic theme, representing the sailors' excitement as they set sail. The second movement, "Le soir," is a slow and melancholic section, evoking the peacefulness of the evening at sea. The third movement, "L'Angélus," is the most famous and dramatic part of the piece. It starts with a solemn and prayerful theme, representing the sailors' devotion to the Virgin Mary. The music then becomes more intense and passionate, as the sailors encounter a storm at sea. The piece ends with a triumphant and joyful theme, symbolizing the sailors' safe return to land. The characteristics of L'Angélus de la mer are typical of the Romantic era, with its emphasis on emotion, drama, and storytelling. The piece is highly programmatic, meaning that it tells a story through music. Goublier uses a wide range of orchestral colors and textures to depict the different moods and scenes of the piece. The use of brass and percussion in the storm scene creates a sense of danger and urgency, while the use of strings and woodwinds in the prayerful sections creates a sense of peace and serenity. Overall, L'Angélus de la mer is a powerful and evocative piece of music, showcasing Goublier's skill as a composer and his ability to tell a story through music. Its popularity has endured over the years, and it remains a beloved work in the symphonic repertoire.

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