Composer

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Arthur Vincent Lourié

Genre

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Keyboard

Style

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Berceuse / Cradle Song

Compose Date

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1936 - 1938

Arthur Vincent Lourié was a Russian composer who was born on May 14, 1891, in Propoisk, Belarus. He was a member of the Russian Futurist movement and was known for his experimental and avant-garde compositions. One of his most famous works is the "Berceuse de la chevrette," which was composed in 1914. The "Berceuse de la chevrette" is a solo piano piece that was premiered in 1915 in Moscow. It is a part of Lourié's "Formes en l'air" (Forms in the Air) collection, which consists of six piano pieces. The "Berceuse de la chevrette" is the second piece in the collection and is known for its dreamy and ethereal quality. The piece is in ABA form and is characterized by its use of impressionistic harmonies and delicate melodies. The A section is marked "doux et rêveur" (soft and dreamy) and features a simple, repetitive melody in the right hand accompanied by a gentle, flowing accompaniment in the left hand. The B section is marked "plus animé" (more animated) and features a more complex melody with a faster tempo and more intricate harmonies. One of the most distinctive features of the "Berceuse de la chevrette" is its use of extended techniques, such as playing inside the piano and using the sostenuto pedal to create a sustained, atmospheric sound. Lourié was known for his experimentation with new sounds and techniques, and the "Berceuse de la chevrette" is a prime example of his innovative approach to composition. Overall, the "Berceuse de la chevrette" is a beautiful and haunting piece that showcases Lourié's unique style and his ability to create evocative, atmospheric music. Its dreamy melodies and impressionistic harmonies make it a favorite among pianists and audiences alike, and it remains a beloved work in the piano repertoire to this day.

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