Between 1921 and 1962, Mompou composed twelve pieces titled Cançons i Danses (Songs and Dances). After the composition of No. 4 in 1928, a series of misfortunes, including the death of his parents and the Spanish Civil War, rendered him unable to compose. After a long hiatus, No. 5 was composed in 1942. It is a highly popular piece.

In C-sharp minor and 8/4 time, the sorrowful 'Song,' sung like a solemn march, features striking fifths layered above C-sharp. Each note should be cherished, as if in prayer. The 'Dance' section is in E major and 6/8 time. Although the emotional wounds are not yet healed, one might perceive a sense of hope gradually moving towards brighter light and joy. The rhythmic interest is further enhanced by variations in phrase length, accents characteristic of a dance, and subtle transitions to 6/4 time. The standard performance time is 4 minutes and 30 seconds.