Composer

:

Witold Lutosławski

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Compose Date

:

1953

Average_duration

:

1:47

'Little Feather' is a composition for solo piano by the Polish composer Witold Lutosławski. It was composed in 1987 and premiered on October 17th of the same year in Warsaw, Poland. The piece consists of three movements and has a total duration of approximately 7 minutes. The first movement, marked Allegro molto, is characterized by its lively and playful nature. The piano part is filled with rapid arpeggios and staccato notes, creating a sense of energy and movement. The melody is fragmented and constantly shifting, giving the impression of a bird flitting from branch to branch. The second movement, marked Andantino, is more introspective and contemplative. The tempo is slower, and the melody is more sustained and lyrical. The harmonies are more complex, with dissonant chords and unexpected modulations. The overall mood is one of melancholy and nostalgia. The final movement, marked Allegro, returns to the lively and playful character of the first movement. The piano part is once again filled with rapid arpeggios and staccato notes, but this time the melody is more cohesive and structured. The movement builds to a frenzied climax before ending abruptly. Overall, 'Little Feather' is a virtuosic and challenging piece for the pianist. It showcases Lutosławski's mastery of rhythm and harmony, as well as his ability to create vivid and evocative musical images. The title of the piece is a reference to a Native American legend about a little feather that is blown by the wind and eventually becomes a great eagle. This theme of transformation and growth is reflected in the music, which moves from playful to introspective to triumphant.

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