Godefroid, F. – Mélodie Russe

$15.00

Genre: Romantic
Difficulty: 6
Pages: 8

Mélodie Russe is another example of Godefroid’s predilection for exoticism, but in this case he came by it honestly. When he traveled to Russia, he visited and collaborated with a good friend from Belgium, the father of future Russian composer Reinhold Glière. The texture here is thicker, more intense than usual, as if the two hands were fighting for supremacy. In reality, poignancy of expression is achieved through repeated notes and pentatonic note patterns that melt into delightful filigree, ending in quick arpeggio patterns with synonym notes contributing to the effect of a magic rush. A facsimile edition.

SKU: HR142 Categories: , ,

Description

Godefroid Mélodie Russe (Russian Melody)

Godefroid_MelodieRusse 2

Félix Godefroid (1818-1897) was the best-known concert harpist in France during the romantic era, in the wake of virtuosos like cellist Servais and violinist Bériot. While most of his works were formidable pieces for his own recitals, in his old age he also composed some delightful, easier gems for his students. Several of those are gathered in the two books of Pensées musicales. Heart-felt and uplifting, Godefroid’s musical writing reveals his propensity for melody (also in a strong left hand) and capacity for creating enchantment with the simplest devices. Celia Chan Valerio’s CD, released in honor of the bicentenary of his birth, provides a great introduction to this lost fairy-tale world.

Additional information

Weight 2.5 oz
Dimensions 12 × 9 × .07 in