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What does Le Tombeau de Couperin mean in English?
a piece written as a memorial
The word tombeau in the title is a musical term popular from the 17th century, meaning “a piece written as a memorial”. The specific Couperin, among a family noted as musicians for about two centuries, that Ravel intended to evoke is thought to be François Couperin “the Great” (1668–1733).
Why did Ravel write le tombeau de Couperin?
In the seventeenth century, Tombeau, which translates literally as “tomb,” referred to “a piece written as a memorial.” Ravel intended to pay homage not only to Couperin, but to the style and ambiance of eighteenth century French keyboard suites. The movements are based on popular Baroque dances.
Where is the Tomb of Couperin?
Francois Couperin
Birth | 10 Dec 1668 Paris, City of Paris, Île-de-France, France |
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Death | 12 Sep 1733 (aged 64) Paris, City of Paris, Île-de-France, France |
Burial | Church of St. Joseph Paris, City of Paris, Île-de-France, France Show Map |
Memorial ID | 9925063 · View Source |
How do you pronounce Tombeau?
Pronunciation
- IPA: /tɔ̃.bo/
- Audio. (file)
Why did Maurice Ravel write Le Tombeau de Couperin?
Originally a six-movement solo composition for piano, Ravel’s Le Tombeau de Couperin was composed between 1914 and 1917. ‘Tombeau’ is a musical term from the Baroque era meaning ‘a piece written as a memorial.’ Every movement of Le Tombeau de Couperin is dedicated to the memory of a friend of Ravel’s, who had died fighting in WWI.
How did Ravel come up with the name Tombeau?
Tombeau in the title is a musical term popular from the 17th century meaning “a piece written as a memorial”. The specific Couperin, among a family noted as musicians for about two centuries, that Ravel intended to evoke is thought to be François Couperin “the Great” (1668–1733).
What is the last movement of Le Tombeau de Couperin?
The final movement of the orchestrated version of Le Tombeau de Couperin is the Rigaudon, the most lively of all the movements. Based in C major, this movement is intricate and fast-paced. The main theme heard at the start is repeated throughout the ensemble, until the second section starts, which is much slower.
What kind of harmony does Maurice Ravel use?
Ravel utilises chromatic harmony within this piece, which can be heard in both the melodic lines and the lower sustaining parts.