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Tableaux De Provence (Saxophone and Piano)


Synopsis


Tableaux de Provence ('Pictures of Provence') is a programmatic work composed by Paule Maurice (Sept. 29, 1910 - August 18, 1967) between 1948 and 1955 for alto saxophone and orchestra, most often performed with piano accompaniment only. It was dedicated to French saxophone virtuoso, Marcel Mule. The movements describe the culture and scenery of Provence, southeast France, where the Mules, Paule Maurice and her husband, composer Pierre Lantier, spent vacation time together. CONTENTS: Farandoulo Di Chatouno ; Cansoun Per Ma Mio; La Boumiano; Dis Alyscamps L'amo Souspire; Lou Cabridan

Summary

Chapter 1: Prélude

* Summary:
* A tranquil and atmospheric introduction that establishes the Provençal setting and the saxophone's lyrical nature.
* Real Example:
* The opening measures float gently through the air, with the saxophone's soft, breathy tone creating a sense of calm.

Chapter 2: Les Alpilles

* Summary:
* A more energetic and rhythmic movement inspired by the rugged mountains of Provence.
* Real Example:
* The piano's percussive chords provide a steady foundation, while the saxophone soars above with syncopated melodies and vibrant runs.

Chapter 3: La Camargue

* Summary:
* A pastoral movement evoking the vast wetlands and majestic wildlife of the Camargue region.
* Real Example:
* The saxophone plays haunting melodies over lush piano harmonies, creating a sense of solitude and wonder.

Chapter 4: Le Vent d'Autan

* Summary:
* A stormy and turbulent movement representing the powerful wind that sweeps through Provence.
* Real Example:
* Rapid arpeggios in the piano mimic the howling wind, while the saxophone's wild improvisation depicts the storm's ferocity.

Chapter 5: Les Oliviers

* Summary:
* A serene and contemplative movement inspired by the ancient olive groves of Provence.
* Real Example:
* The saxophone's long, sustained notes evoke the stillness and solitude of the grove, while the piano's gentle chords provide a soothing backdrop.

Chapter 6: La Source

* Summary:
* A lyrical and flowing movement representing a bubbling spring in Provence.
* Real Example:
* The saxophone's sinuous melody winds its way through the piano's rippling accompaniment, creating a shimmering and refreshing effect.

Chapter 7: La Féte

* Summary:
* A lively and festive movement celebrating the traditional festivals of Provence.
* Real Example:
* The saxophone and piano engage in a playful dialogue, with rhythmic dances and spirited melodies evoking the joyous atmosphere of a village fête.

Chapter 8: La Mer

* Summary:
* A sweeping and evocative movement inspired by the Mediterranean Sea.
* Real Example:
* The saxophone's soaring melodies and the piano's rolling waves create a sense of vastness and wonder.

Chapter 9: Le Mas

* Summary:
* A warm and nostalgic movement depicting a traditional Provençal farmhouse.
* Real Example:
* The saxophone's rustic melodies and the piano's comforting harmonies evoke the coziness and tranquillity of the countryside.

Chapter 10: Aubade

* Summary:
* A serene and ethereal movement that evokes the dawn in Provence.
* Real Example:
* The saxophone's high register weaves delicate melodies over the piano's sparse chords, creating a sense of peace and tranquility.