Albéniz, Isaac : Navarra As-Dur
Work Overview
Composition Year:1909
Publication Year:1912
First Publisher:Édition mutuelle
Instrumentation:Piano Solo
Genre:character pieces
Total Playing Time:5 min 40 sec
Copyright:Public Domain
Commentary (1)
Author : Wada, Mayuko
Last Updated: December 1, 2007
[Open]
Author : Wada, Mayuko
"Navarra" is a place name located west of the Pyrenees.
Although Albéniz began composing this piece in 1908, he passed away the following year without completing it. Therefore, his pupil and friend, Déodat de Séverac (1873-1921), restored and completed it (adding 26 measures) in 1909. This supplemented section is often described as possessing Séverac's characteristic delicacy and beauty, yet lacking in brilliance. There are also opinions that if "Navarra" had been completed by Albéniz himself, it would have become one of his greatest masterpieces.
A-flat major. 3/8 time, Allegro non troppo.
This is a fantasy based on the Jota theme from the Navarra region. Not only its technical difficulty but also its complex notation contribute to making this piece a challenging work. This piece was originally composed to be included in Book 4 of Iberia. However, in a letter to Joaquín Malats, Albéniz stated: "Even if I finish it, it will be unsatisfactory," and "The writing is very popular, and while I don't dislike it, I think it would be better to write a new piece that matches the other eleven."
Its sensual and melancholic melodies are original, and indeed, it has become a work cherished by many.
The crisp sixteenth-note accompaniment imbues the piece with vitality, and the octave chords enhance its brilliance and scale. Playing it with freedom and even exaggerated expression will make the piece more vibrant.
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Sheet Music
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