The 107th Salon - Resonance
"Where words leaves off, music begins."
—Heinrich Heine
??On May 25, 2024, the 107th art salon 'Resonance' was successfully held at SSBS. This salon was organized by Ms. Mandy,and performed by Steven Jiang and Kevin Zhu. Their repertoire, spanning classical masterpieces and folk melodies from various cultures and eras, showcased an impressive breadth of musical prowess. The audience was enthralled by their versatility, leading to resounding applause and admiration for the young musicians.
Program Notes
1
Barcarolle
? ?Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky's "June Barcarolle" encapsulates the essence of Russian summer. Commissioned in 1875 as part of a series representing each month, Tchaikovsky's choice of the "barcarolle" genre reflects the gentle rhythms of a boat on water. With sparkling melodies and rippling arpeggios, the piece vividly portrays the warmth and nostalgia of the season. Originally intended as accompaniment to poetry, "June Barcarolle" has since become a beloved standalone piece, enchanting audiences with its timeless beauty and evocative imagery.
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2
Piano Sonata in F major, K332
??Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, celebrated as one of history's greatest composers, created over 500 works during his lifetime, showcasing remarkable versatility across a range of themes and formats. Among his prolific output, the years 1774 to 1781 mark a mature period of composition, yielding gems like the "Paris Sonata" (KV332), composed during his time in Paris. Reflecting Mozart's early musical style, this sonata exudes elegance, beauty, and cheerfulness, establishing a foundation for his later masterpieces while holding a prominent position within his body of work.
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3
At the Evening window
? ?"At the Evening Window," a masterpiece Jan Freidlin, concludes his collection "The Four Stories." This multi-part composition, presented in a legato cantabile style within a ternary form, exudes a reflective and rhythmic personality. With warm harmonies reminiscent of the Romantic era, Freidlin adds intriguing dissonant sound effects and sharp, writhing patterns, blending traditional craftsmanship with contemporary innovation. This piece offers a captivating glimpse into the 19th-century Romantic style, evoking a poignant and evocative musical journey.
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4
Piano sonata in G major,op79
?? Beethoven's Sonata in G major (Op. 79), affectionately dubbed the "Cuckoo" Sonata, showcases the composer's genius during his prime. The first movement, in G major, blends sonata style with the German Lndler, featuring lively arpeggios and scales that vividly depict nature's awakening. With nimble fingerwork and the use of broken chords and scales, Beethoven captures the vibrant energy of spring and the flourishing beauty of the natural world.
5
Sunflower
? ?"Sunflower" was originally a popular mass song from the 1960s, widely sung across the country. Lin Eryao, former director of the piano department at the Shanghai Conservatory of Music, later adapted it into a piano piece. The composition follows a three-part structure: an introduction mimicking the dulcimer, a Chinese folk instrument, sets the theme; the first and last sections maintain the original song's fresh and soulful melody, accompanied by rhythmic dance-style music; and the middle section features a bright and joyful variation on the original theme, depicting sunflowers flourishing in the sun.
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6
Victory
? ?"Victory," created by the American music production company Two Steps From Hell (TSFH), has emerged as a global sensation since its release. With its majestic melody and stirring female vocals and chorus, the song quickly captured the hearts of listeners worldwide. Originally introduced to the Chinese mainland, "Victory" became TSFH's most popular track in 2019. Its epic nature and powerful themes have resonated deeply with audiences, earning it widespread acclaim and numerous interpretations by netizens. A true musical masterpiece, "Victory" stands as an epic divine comedy that transcends cultural boundaries and captivates audiences across the globe.
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7
Deux Arabesques
? ?Debussy's "Deux Arabesques, L. 66" showcases his mastery of rhythm and melody. The first arabesque, with its intricate triplet patterns and syncopated rhythms, conjures a sense of tranquility akin to a peaceful afternoon bathed in sunlight. The middle section, highlighted by a bold statement in C major, swiftly transitions back to E major with expert tonal manipulation. Through chromatic alterations, Debussy effortlessly transforms chords, demonstrating his unparalleled ability to craft seamless tonal transitions with exquisite precision.
8
New Kid
? ?Christopher Norton, the esteemed composer born in New Zealand and later residing in England, presents a delightful swing-style piece brimming with charm and flair. Opening with a nod to the Charleston era, the composition exudes a playful energy reminiscent of traditional swing music. A spirited improvisational section gradually builds to a dramatic climax, featuring an impressive "locked hand" passage that captivates the listener's attention. With its whimsical style and unexpected twists, the piece teases a gentle conclusion only to conclude with a bold and resounding finale, leaving a lasting impression on audiences.
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??As the afternoon light fades at the SSBS Art Salon, we're left with the lingering melodies of Steven and Kevin's piano performances. Their talent and promise leave us eager to witness their future progress. Until then, may their music continue to inspire us, and may their journey be filled with artistic brilliance.
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如有意参加艺术沙龙的同学请与班主任或艺术组联系
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文字:江思乐、朱梓瑞、许馨元
图:星校电视台
编辑:许馨元
审核:杨蝉