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Technical Notice
| Classical Composer: | Albéniz, Isaac |
|---|---|
| Work: | España, Op. 165 |
| Year Composed: | 1890 |
| Instrumentation: | pf |
| Publisher: | Unión Musical Española |
| Duration: | 00:17:00 |
| Period: | Romantic |
| Work Category: | Instrumental |
Work Information
Available Recording(s)
España: Seis hojas de álbum (Spain: Six Album Leaves) is a set of short pieces published in London in 1890. Albéniz wrote a number of suites such as this one which, although not as difficult as Iberia, conjures up Spain in its rhythms, harmonies and sense of drama. The fanfare-like Preludio introduces the dances that follow and features the basic elements of flamenco: song, dance and guitar accompaniment. Its triplet passages herald what is to come in the Malagueña. The Tango is Albéniz's best-known work, and has been transcribed many times for other instruments. Its rhythm is closer to that of the habanera than the Argentinean tango, and it bears no relation to the flamenco genre of the same name. It boasts a wealth of harmonies and a tranquil, sensual character. The Malagueña contains more allusions to flamenco, with touches of cante in the melismatic melodies of its central section. The Serenata is a fragmented piece in which staccato passages alternate with an intermittent waltz. There are echoes of Scarlatti at the start, and sevillanas dance rhythms in the central section. The Capricho catalán is one of the few Albéniz compositions associated with his native Catalonia. It is a very attractive piece with a constant syncopated rhythm in the accompaniment which rocks the curving melodic line built on thirds. The closing Zortzico is one of two such pieces Albé;niz wrote, based on the Basque folk-dance of that name, with its characteristic 5/8 time signature. Its subtle writing pays homage to a place in which he performed on many occasions and was always warmly welcomed.
Writer: Santiago L. Sacristán
Translated by: Susannah Howes
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