Composer

:

Giovanni de Macque

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Keyboard

Average_duration

:

2:59

Durezze e ligature is a keyboard work composed by Giovanni de Macque, an Italian composer of the late Renaissance period. The piece was likely composed in the late 16th century, although the exact date is unknown. It is believed to have been premiered in Venice, where de Macque spent much of his career. Durezze e ligature is a set of variations on a theme, with each variation exploring different harmonic and rhythmic possibilities. The title of the piece refers to the use of dissonances (durezze) and suspensions (ligature) in the music, which were considered innovative and daring at the time. The piece is divided into six movements, each with its own distinct character and mood. The first movement is a slow and stately introduction, setting the stage for the variations to come. The second movement is a lively and rhythmic variation, featuring rapid runs and trills in the right hand. The third movement is a more introspective variation, with a slower tempo and more complex harmonies. The fourth movement is a virtuosic tour-de-force, featuring rapid-fire runs and arpeggios in both hands. The fifth movement is a more subdued variation, with a gentle and flowing melody in the right hand accompanied by a simple chordal accompaniment in the left. The final movement is a triumphant and exuberant variation, bringing the piece to a thrilling conclusion. Overall, Durezze e ligature is a challenging and complex work that showcases de Macque's mastery of keyboard technique and his innovative approach to harmony and rhythm. It remains a popular and influential work in the keyboard repertoire to this day.

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