Composer

:

César Franck

Genre

:

Orchestral

Style

:

Tone Poem

Compose Date

:

1884

Publication Date

:

1893

Average_duration

:

12:19

Les Djinns, M. 45 is a symphonic poem composed by César Franck in 1884. It was premiered on March 4, 1885, at the Société Nationale de Musique in Paris, conducted by Charles Lamoureux. The piece is inspired by the poem "Les Djinns" by Victor Hugo, which describes the supernatural creatures of Arabian mythology. The composition is divided into three movements, each representing a different aspect of the poem. The first movement, marked "Lento," begins with a haunting melody played by the cellos and basses, which sets the mood for the piece. The music gradually builds in intensity as the orchestra enters, with the brass and percussion adding to the sense of foreboding. The movement ends with a sudden, dramatic climax. The second movement, marked "Allegro non troppo," is more lively and energetic than the first. It features a fast-paced, rhythmic theme played by the strings, which is then taken up by the woodwinds and brass. The music is full of energy and excitement, with the orchestra building to a frenzied climax before abruptly stopping. The final movement, marked "Meno mosso," is the most atmospheric and mysterious of the three. It begins with a soft, ethereal melody played by the strings, which is then joined by the woodwinds and harp. The music gradually builds in intensity, with the brass and percussion adding to the sense of drama. The movement ends with a powerful climax, as the orchestra reaches its full force. Overall, Les Djinns is a powerful and evocative piece of music, which captures the supernatural and mysterious atmosphere of Victor Hugo's poem. Franck's use of orchestration and dynamics creates a sense of tension and drama throughout the piece, making it a thrilling and engaging work to listen to.

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