Composer

:

Claude-Bénigne Balbastre

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Suite

Average_duration

:

6:00

Claude-Bénigne Balbastre's 'Suites (4) de Noëls for harpsichord or fortepiano' is a collection of four suites, each consisting of several variations on popular French Christmas carols. The suites were composed in the mid-18th century and were first published in 1770. The first suite begins with a lively and joyful variation on the carol "Joseph est bien marié." The second movement is a more contemplative and introspective variation on "Noël nouvelet." The third movement is a playful and whimsical variation on "Il est né le divin enfant," featuring intricate ornamentation and rapid arpeggios. The suite concludes with a grand and majestic variation on "Un flambeau, Jeannette, Isabelle." The second suite opens with a gentle and delicate variation on "Chantons je vous prie." The second movement is a lively and energetic variation on "Les anges dans nos campagnes," featuring rapid runs and trills. The third movement is a more subdued and introspective variation on "Entre le boeuf et l'âne gris." The suite concludes with a grand and majestic variation on "Ding dong! Merrily on high." The third suite begins with a lively and energetic variation on "Venez, divin Messie." The second movement is a more contemplative and introspective variation on "Minuit, chrétiens." The third movement is a playful and whimsical variation on "Petit Papa Noël," featuring intricate ornamentation and rapid arpeggios. The suite concludes with a grand and majestic variation on "Il est né le divin enfant." The fourth and final suite opens with a gentle and delicate variation on "Noël des enfants qui n'ont plus de maison." The second movement is a lively and energetic variation on "Les anges dans nos campagnes," featuring rapid runs and trills. The third movement is a more subdued and introspective variation on "Il est né le divin enfant." The suite concludes with a grand and majestic variation on "Adeste fideles." Overall, Balbastre's 'Suites (4) de Noëls for harpsichord or fortepiano' are characterized by their lively and joyful variations on popular French Christmas carols. The suites showcase Balbastre's virtuosic keyboard technique and his ability to create intricate and ornate musical textures. The suites are a testament to Balbastre's skill as a composer and his ability to capture the spirit of the holiday season in his music.

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