Composer

:

Claude-Bénigne Balbastre

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Suite

Average_duration

:

24:50

Movement_count

:

6

Movement ....

Claude-Bénigne Balbastre was a French composer, harpsichordist, and organist who lived from 1724 to 1799. He was known for his keyboard music, particularly his suites of Noëls, which were collections of Christmas carols arranged for the harpsichord or organ. One of his most famous works is the Suite de Noëls No. 2, which was composed in the mid-18th century. The Suite de Noëls No. 2 is a collection of nine pieces, each based on a different Christmas carol. The suite was composed for the harpsichord, but it can also be played on the organ. The movements are as follows: 1. Ouverture: This movement is in the style of a French overture, with a slow, majestic opening followed by a faster, more lively section. 2. Joseph est bien marié: This movement is based on the carol "Joseph est bien marié." It is a lively dance in triple meter, with a playful melody and a syncopated accompaniment. 3. La Marche des Rois: This movement is based on the carol "La Marche des Rois." It is a stately procession in duple meter, with a regal melody and a simple accompaniment. 4. Noël pour l'amour de Marie: This movement is based on the carol "Noël pour l'amour de Marie." It is a gentle, lyrical piece in triple meter, with a flowing melody and a delicate accompaniment. 5. La Nativité: This movement is based on the carol "La Nativité." It is a slow, contemplative piece in duple meter, with a simple melody and a rich, harmonious accompaniment. 6. Joseph est bien marié (Variation): This movement is a variation on the second movement, "Joseph est bien marié." It is a more complex and virtuosic version of the original dance. 7. Noël: Cette Journée: This movement is based on the carol "Noël: Cette Journée." It is a lively dance in triple meter, with a catchy melody and a syncopated accompaniment. 8. La Marche des Rois (Variation): This movement is a variation on the third movement, "La Marche des Rois." It is a more elaborate and ornate version of the original procession. 9. Noël: Grand Jeu et Duo: This movement is based on the carol "Noël: Grand Jeu et Duo." It is a lively and festive piece in duple meter, with a lively melody and a virtuosic accompaniment. The Suite de Noëls No. 2 is a charming and delightful collection of Christmas carols arranged for the harpsichord or organ. The movements are varied in style and mood, ranging from stately processions to lively dances to contemplative meditations. Balbastre's skillful use of harmony, rhythm, and melody creates a rich and colorful musical tapestry that captures the spirit of the holiday season.

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