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Sunday, January 23, 2011

Piece #23 - Pavane - Gabriel Faure'

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TmztBK92r6s

In reading the recent NY Times listing of the top 10 composers, I thought Faure' was a major omission. While I certainly could understand leaving him off the actual list, there was very little discussion of his candidacy, which I think is very strong. Although he never composed a symphony, his contributions to chamber music and the art song should give him consideration to sit at the big table.

Factoids:
  • Gabriel Faure' served as organist at La Madelaine, one of the most prestigious church positions in all of France.
  • Eventually he would teach composition at The Parios Conservatory where he would later serve as director.

  • A Pavane is a renaissance dance, typically associated with royalty.

  • Notice the sparse orchestration, which allows for absolute expression in the solo line, in this case performed by Bobby McFerrin.

Enjoy!

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