Composer

:

Félicien David

Genre

:

Vocal

Average_duration

:

3:20

'Oubli!' is a symphonic poem composed by Félicien David in 1867. It premiered on March 10, 1868, at the Salle Pleyel in Paris, conducted by Jules Pasdeloup. The piece is divided into three movements and has a total duration of approximately 25 minutes. The first movement, marked "Lent et rêveur" (slow and dreamy), begins with a haunting melody played by the strings. The music gradually builds in intensity, with the addition of brass and percussion, before subsiding back into a more subdued mood. The second movement, marked "Allegro con fuoco" (fast and fiery), is a lively and energetic dance, featuring a prominent role for the woodwinds. The final movement, marked "Lento" (slow), returns to the melancholic mood of the first movement, with a mournful melody played by the oboe and strings. Overall, 'Oubli!' is characterized by its lush orchestration and evocative melodies. David was known for his interest in exoticism and the piece incorporates elements of Middle Eastern and North African music, particularly in the use of percussion and the use of modal scales. The piece also demonstrates David's interest in programmatic music, with the title 'Oubli!' (meaning "forgetfulness" or "oblivion") suggesting a narrative of loss and longing.

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