The evening concert 'Andalusian Echoes' will once again feature Fidelio Trio and violist Jane Atkins in the warmth of the Belvedere House library. Escape the frosty winter and journey to the Spanish heat, with Manuel De Falla's luscious 'Suite Populaire Espagnole' and Isaac Albéniz's evocative 'Triana'. These stunning works will lead us to Belgium to revel in the expressive sounds of Guillaume Lekeu's Piano Quartet.
Saturday, November 25, 2023
7:30 PM 9:30 PM
Belvedere House (map)
Programme
Manuel De Falla: 'Suite Populaire Espagnole' for cello and piano
Isaac Albéniz, 'Triana'
Guillaume Lekeu: Piano Quartet
Performers: Darragh Morgan (violin) | Jane Atkins (viola) | Tim Gill (cello) | Mary Dullea (piano)
Programme Notes
Manuel de Falla, "Suite Populaire Espagnole"
Manuel de Falla's (1876-1946) "Suite Populaire Espagnole" for cello and piano is a vibrant collection of Spanish folk melodies arranged with flair and passion. Composed in 1914, this suite encapsulates de Falla's deep connection to his native Spain and his fascination with the country's rich folk traditions.
El Paño Moruno - Allegretto Vivace
Nana - Calmo e Sostenuto
Canción - Allegretto
Polo - Vivo
Asturiana - Andante Tranquillo
Jota - Allegro Vivo
The suite consists of several movements, each a musical gem that showcases the expressive capabilities of the cello. From the sultry allure of the "Canción" to the rhythmic excitement of the "Polo," de Falla weaves together a tapestry of Spanish colours and emotions. The "Nana" (lullaby) introduces a tender, lulling atmosphere, while the fiery "Jota" concludes the suite with a burst of virtuosity.
De Falla's skillful adaptation of these folk tunes for cello and piano brings forth the essence of Spanish culture, with its deep-rooted melodies and distinctive rhythms. The "Suite Populaire Espagnole" remains a captivating exploration of the intersection between classical refinement and folk authenticity, offering performers and audiences alike a compelling journey through the soul-stirring landscapes of Spain.
Isaac Albeniz, ‘Triana’
Isaac Albéniz's (1860-1909) "Triana," originally part of his suite "Iberia," is a musical masterpiece that vividly captures the spirit and vitality of the Andalusian district of Seville, Spain. Composed between 1905 and 1909, "Triana" has become a standalone piano piece and a hallmark of Spanish piano music.
The title refers to the district of Triana, known for its rich cultural heritage and its influence on flamenco music. Albéniz skillfully employs evocative harmonies and intricate rhythms to portray the lively atmosphere of this vibrant neighbourhood.
"Triana" opens with bold, dramatic chords that set the stage for a passionate exploration of Spanish rhythms and melodies. The piece progresses through various sections, each characterised by its own distinct mood, from the majestic to the introspective.
Albéniz's "Triana" is a thrilling musical journey that demands technical prowess and interpretative sensitivity from the performer. Its integration of folk elements and virtuosic writing make it a captivating and enduring contribution to the Spanish piano repertoire, showcasing Albéniz's ability to seamlessly blend nationalistic influences with classical forms.
Guillaume Lekeu, Piano Quartet in B minor (unfinished)
Guillaume Lekeu's (1870-1894) Piano Quartet, is a work of poignant beauty and striking emotional depth. Lekeu, a Belgian composer whose life was tragically cut short at the age of 24, left behind a small yet significant body of work, with the Piano Quartet standing as one of his most celebrated compositions.
Dans un emportement douloreaux (Trés animé)
Lent et passionné
Commissioned by the violinist Eugène Ysäye, the quartet was composed in 1893 and left unfinished on his death from typhoid fever. It was completed the following year by fellow composer D’Indy. The lengthy opening movement begins in a turbulent fashion and leads the listener through torrents of powerful emotions interspersed with lyrical melodies. The lush and expansive thematic material reflect Lekeu's romantic sensibilities. The second movement was to be a nocturne and love scene and again showcases Lekeu's gift for lyrical expression. Lekeu's Piano Quartet is a testament to his ability to craft music of great emotional resonance and maturity. Its lyrical richness and harmonic sophistication place it among the noteworthy chamber works of the late 19th century. Despite his premature death, Lekeu's legacy endures through this captivating composition, offering listeners a glimpse into the extraordinary talent that could have further flourished had he lived longer.