Composer

:

Jacques Ibert

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Keyboard

Compose Date

:

1922

Average_duration

:

22:24

Movement_count

:

10

Movement ....

Jacques Ibert's 'Histoires (10) for piano & piano, 4 hands' is a collection of ten short pieces for piano, composed in 1922. The work was premiered in Paris in the same year, and has since become a popular choice for piano duos. The ten movements of 'Histoires' are each based on a different story or character, and range in mood from playful to melancholic. The first movement, 'La meneuse de tortues d'or' (The Leader of the Golden Turtles), is a lively and rhythmic piece that evokes the image of a procession of turtles. The second movement, 'Le petit âne blanc' (The Little White Donkey), is a charming and whimsical piece that captures the playful spirit of a young donkey. Other movements include 'Le vieux mendiant' (The Old Beggar), a melancholic and introspective piece; 'Le palais abandonné' (The Abandoned Palace), a haunting and atmospheric piece that evokes the image of a deserted palace; and 'La marchande d'eau fraîche' (The Fresh Water Seller), a lively and energetic piece that captures the hustle and bustle of a busy marketplace. Throughout the work, Ibert demonstrates his skill in creating vivid musical images and evoking a range of emotions through his use of melody, harmony, and rhythm. The pieces are also notable for their use of unconventional techniques, such as the use of the piano lid as a percussion instrument in 'La cage de cristal' (The Crystal Cage). Overall, 'Histoires' is a delightful and engaging work that showcases Ibert's talent for creating evocative and imaginative music. Its popularity among piano duos is a testament to its enduring appeal and charm.

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