Even though it was written in the late 1880's, Satie's Gymnopedies sound fairly modern - almost as though they were written in the 21st century. Pensive tone, haunting melody. Check out Gymnopedies No.1 on YouTube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S-Xm7s9eGxU
Erik Satie was a rather eccentric French composer living in the 19th century whose music much influenced Debussy. The music of Satie was a definitive break from the wide emotional swings of the music from the romantic era.
Even though it was written in the late 1880's, Satie's Gymnopedies sound fairly modern - almost as though they were written in the 21st century. Pensive tone, haunting melody. Check out Gymnopedies No.1 on YouTube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S-Xm7s9eGxU
0 Comments
Pronounced "SHOW-pan."
Lived from 1810–1849 Born in Poland, but moved to Paris, France when he was 20. Earned most of his money from teaching piano and selling compositions. Chopin's health was poor - he suffered with a lung disease his entire life, which sapped his stamina. When he performed in recitals, Chopin typically chose small salons and performed for an intimate circle of guests rather than renting a concert hall. (Chopin was physically unable to play "with gusto.") Wrote predominately for piano. Even the works that include orchestra are more like piano solos with accompaniment. Chopin is noted for writing an extensive collection of "etudes" or studies - technical studies designed to help students master the technical aspect of playing the piano. Chopin's etudes were unique in his time, in that not only are they technically challenging, but they are also aesthetically pleasing to the ear. Chopin is also noted for writing nocturnes (night pieces) and for inventing the instrumental ballade (telling a story without vocalist). |
Archives
December 2019
Categories
All
|