《Après un Rêve, op.7 no.1》

Gabriel Fauré (1845-1924)

Gabriel Fauré is often regarded as a prototypical French composer. Fauré's Op. 7, titled Trois melodies, was one of his early works. It is comprised of Après un Rêve (Op. 7, No. 1) , Hymne (Op. 7, No. 2) , and Barcarolle (Op. 7, No. 3) , among which Après un Rêve is the most popular and well-known piece. With the lyrics set to a graceful melody, the piece describes a romantic tale of love and elopement. The piano begins in a very gentle pianissimo as a steady eighth-note rhythm continues throughout the entire piece, conveying a feeling of serene happiness. The melody is typical of Fauré's musical language; continuous melodic lines and similar rhythmic patterns abound, while melodies consisting of triplets create a dream-like rhythmic pulse. The concentrated range also brings a sense of fluidity and breathing quality to the music. The violin used in this recording was made by French luthier Jacques Boquary (1680-1730) in 1719. The lustrous sound of the violin evokes a captivating sonic picture and conveys the passionate love of a romantic tale.