Composer

:

Arthur Honegger

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Song

Compose Date

:

1914 - 1916

Publication Date

:

1921

Average_duration

:

9:30

Movement_count

:

4

Movement ....

Arthur Honegger's 'Poèmes (4), H. 7' is a collection of four songs composed in 1917. The premiere of the work took place on May 17, 1918, in Geneva, Switzerland. The four movements of the work are titled 'L'ombre des arbres,' 'Dans la nuit,' 'Deux ancolies,' and 'Soir d'été.' The first movement, 'L'ombre des arbres,' is a slow and melancholic piece that features a haunting melody in the vocal line. The piano accompaniment is sparse and delicate, creating a sense of stillness and introspection. The text of the poem, written by Emile Verhaeren, describes the shadows of trees as they move and change throughout the day, reflecting the passing of time and the transience of life. The second movement, 'Dans la nuit,' is a more dramatic and intense piece that features a faster tempo and a more complex piano accompaniment. The vocal line is more declamatory, with the singer expressing a sense of urgency and desperation. The text of the poem, also by Verhaeren, describes the darkness of the night and the fear and uncertainty that it can bring. The third movement, 'Deux ancolies,' is a gentle and lyrical piece that features a simple and delicate piano accompaniment. The vocal line is soft and tender, expressing a sense of longing and nostalgia. The text of the poem, by Maurice Maeterlinck, describes two columbines that grow together and eventually wither and die, symbolizing the fragility and impermanence of love. The final movement, 'Soir d'été,' is a lively and upbeat piece that features a faster tempo and a more rhythmic piano accompaniment. The vocal line is joyful and celebratory, expressing a sense of happiness and contentment. The text of the poem, by Paul Verlaine, describes a summer evening filled with music and laughter, evoking a sense of warmth and community. Overall, 'Poèmes (4), H. 7' is a beautiful and evocative work that showcases Honegger's skill as a composer. The four movements are diverse in style and mood, but they are united by a sense of introspection and reflection on the passing of time and the fragility of life.

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