Composer

:

Matthijs Vermeulen

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Compose Date

:

1917

Average_duration

:

26:10

"Les filles du roi d'Espagne" is a symphonic poem composed by Matthijs Vermeulen in 1931. The piece was premiered on November 12, 1931, in Amsterdam, conducted by Willem Mengelberg. The composition is divided into three movements, each depicting a different scene from the story of the daughters of the King of Spain. The first movement, "La Danse des Filles," is a lively and rhythmic dance that represents the joy and excitement of the young princesses as they prepare for their journey to the Netherlands. The second movement, "La Nuit," is a slow and hauntingly beautiful piece that portrays the loneliness and fear of the princesses as they travel across the sea. The final movement, "Le Retour," is a triumphant and celebratory piece that depicts the joyous return of the princesses to Spain. Vermeulen's use of orchestration is particularly noteworthy in this piece. He employs a wide range of instruments, including the harp, celesta, and percussion, to create a rich and varied sound. The use of dissonance and unconventional harmonies also adds to the unique character of the composition. Overall, "Les filles du roi d'Espagne" is a masterful work that showcases Vermeulen's skill as a composer. Its vivid imagery and emotional depth make it a powerful and memorable piece of music.

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