Composer

:

Camille Saint-Saëns

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Keyboard

Compose Date

:

1894

Publication Date

:

1894

Average_duration

:

7:26

Caprice arabe, Op. 96 is a composition for piano and orchestra by French composer Camille Saint-Saëns. It was composed in 1894 and premiered on January 22, 1895, in Paris, with the composer himself as the soloist. The piece is divided into three movements. The first movement, marked Allegro moderato, begins with a slow introduction featuring a solo piano playing a Middle Eastern-sounding melody. The orchestra then enters with a lively theme, which is developed throughout the movement. The piano and orchestra engage in a lively dialogue, with the piano often playing virtuosic runs and arpeggios. The second movement, marked Andantino quasi allegretto, is a lyrical interlude featuring a solo violin playing a haunting melody. The piano accompanies the violin with delicate arpeggios and chords. The movement is short but sweet, providing a contrast to the more energetic first and third movements. The third movement, marked Allegro scherzando, is a lively and playful finale. The piano and orchestra engage in a spirited dialogue, with the piano often playing rapid-fire runs and trills. The movement features a Middle Eastern-sounding melody, which is developed throughout the movement. The piece ends with a flourish, with the piano and orchestra playing a final virtuosic passage. Caprice arabe, Op. 96 is characterized by its exoticism and virtuosity. The piece is inspired by Middle Eastern music, with its use of modal scales and exotic rhythms. The piano part is highly virtuosic, featuring rapid runs, arpeggios, and trills. The orchestration is colorful and imaginative, with Saint-Saëns using a variety of instruments to create a Middle Eastern atmosphere. Overall, Caprice arabe, Op. 96 is a delightful and entertaining piece, showcasing Saint-Saëns' skill as a composer and pianist. Its exoticism and virtuosity make it a popular choice for pianists and orchestras alike.

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