Composer

:

Claudio Merulo

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Keyboard

Average_duration

:

6:56

'Susanne Un Jour' is a composition by Claudio Merulo, an Italian composer and organist of the late Renaissance period. The piece was composed in the late 16th century, around 1580, and was premiered in Venice, Italy. The composition is a set of variations on the popular French chanson 'Susanne un jour', which tells the story of Susanna and the elders from the biblical book of Daniel. The piece is written for keyboard instruments, specifically for the harpsichord or organ, and is divided into several movements. The first movement is a simple statement of the melody, followed by a series of variations that explore different aspects of the melody and its harmonies. The variations range from simple embellishments of the melody to more complex contrapuntal textures and virtuosic flourishes. One of the characteristics of 'Susanne Un Jour' is its use of chromaticism, which was a relatively new technique at the time. Merulo uses chromaticism to create tension and drama in the piece, particularly in the more complex variations. Another characteristic is the use of imitative counterpoint, which is a hallmark of Renaissance music. Merulo uses this technique to create intricate and complex textures that showcase the capabilities of the keyboard instrument. Overall, 'Susanne Un Jour' is a virtuosic and complex composition that showcases Merulo's skill as a composer and keyboardist. Its use of chromaticism and imitative counterpoint make it a significant work in the history of keyboard music, and it remains a popular piece for performers and audiences alike.

More....