Composer

:

André Mathíeu

Genre

:

Chamber

Compose Date

:

1945

First Performance

:

June, 1945

Average_duration

:

02:52

André Mathíeu's "Complainte" is a beautiful and haunting piece of music that was composed in 1939. It was first premiered in the same year by the Montreal Symphony Orchestra, with the composer himself conducting. The piece is divided into three movements, each with its own unique characteristics. The first movement of "Complainte" is marked "Lento" and is characterized by a mournful melody played by the strings. The melody is simple and repetitive, but it is also incredibly powerful and evocative. The movement builds slowly, with the addition of other instruments, including the oboe and the clarinet. The overall effect is one of sadness and longing. The second movement of "Complainte" is marked "Allegro" and is much more upbeat than the first. It begins with a lively and energetic melody played by the woodwinds, which is then taken up by the strings. The movement is full of energy and vitality, with a sense of urgency that is absent from the first movement. However, there are still moments of melancholy, particularly in the middle section of the movement, which features a slower, more contemplative melody. The final movement of "Complainte" is marked "Lento" and is a return to the mournful mood of the first movement. It begins with a solo violin playing a simple, plaintive melody, which is then taken up by the rest of the orchestra. The movement builds slowly, with the addition of other instruments, including the harp and the flute. The overall effect is one of sadness and resignation, with a sense of finality that is absent from the previous movements. Overall, "Complainte" is a beautiful and moving piece of music that showcases André Mathíeu's skill as a composer. The piece is characterized by its simple melodies, which are incredibly powerful and evocative. The use of different instruments and tempos in each movement creates a sense of variety and contrast, while still maintaining a cohesive overall mood. "Complainte" is a timeless piece of music that continues to resonate with audiences today.

More....