Composer

:

Frank Martin

Genre

:

Concerto

Style

:

Concerto

Compose Date

:

1972

First Performance

:

Jan 20, 1973

Average_duration

:

12:32

Frank Martin's Ballade for viola & winds, harp, harpsichord & timpani is a chamber music composition that was composed in 1949. The piece was premiered on May 3, 1952, in Zurich, Switzerland, with the composer himself conducting the Zurich Chamber Orchestra. The Ballade is a single-movement work that lasts approximately 15 minutes. The piece is characterized by its lyrical and expressive melodies, which are contrasted with more rhythmic and energetic sections. The viola is the featured solo instrument, and it is accompanied by a wind ensemble consisting of flute, oboe, clarinet, bassoon, and horn, as well as harp, harpsichord, and timpani. The piece begins with a slow and mournful introduction, with the viola playing a lyrical melody over a soft and delicate accompaniment from the winds and harp. This section gradually builds in intensity, with the viola playing more virtuosic passages and the winds and harp providing a more rhythmic and energetic accompaniment. The middle section of the piece is more lively and rhythmic, with the viola playing a more playful and dance-like melody. The winds and harp provide a lively and syncopated accompaniment, while the harpsichord adds a percussive element to the texture. The timpani also makes its first appearance in this section, adding a driving and rhythmic pulse to the music. The final section of the piece returns to the slower and more lyrical mood of the opening, with the viola playing a beautiful and expressive melody over a soft and delicate accompaniment from the winds and harp. The piece ends with a quiet and peaceful coda, with the viola playing a final, gentle melody over a soft and delicate accompaniment from the winds and harp. Overall, the Ballade for viola & winds, harp, harpsichord & timpani is a beautiful and expressive work that showcases the lyrical and virtuosic capabilities of the viola. The piece is characterized by its contrasting moods and textures, as well as its use of a diverse ensemble of instruments to create a rich and varied sound world.

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