Composer

:

John Field

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

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Character Piece

Compose Date

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1814

Average_duration

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4:16

John Field's "Pastoral" is a piano piece in A major, also known as Nocturne No. 8, H. 14. It was composed in the early 19th century and premiered in 1814. The piece is divided into two movements, with the first being in A major and the second in A minor. The first movement, marked "Andante," begins with a simple, pastoral melody in the right hand, accompanied by a gentle arpeggio in the left. The melody is then repeated with slight variations, and the left hand takes on a more active role, providing a flowing accompaniment. The middle section of the movement features a more dramatic melody in the left hand, while the right hand continues to play the pastoral theme. The movement ends with a return to the original melody, played softly and delicately. The second movement, marked "Allegro moderato," is in A minor and provides a contrast to the gentle, pastoral feel of the first movement. It begins with a fast, rhythmic melody in the right hand, accompanied by a driving bass line in the left. The melody is then repeated with variations, and the left hand takes on a more complex role, providing a counterpoint to the right hand melody. The middle section of the movement features a more lyrical melody in the right hand, while the left hand continues to play the driving bass line. The movement ends with a return to the fast, rhythmic melody of the beginning. Overall, "Pastoral" is a beautiful and expressive piece that showcases John Field's skill as a composer and pianist. The pastoral theme of the first movement and the more dramatic feel of the second movement provide a nice contrast and keep the listener engaged throughout the piece.

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