Yamada, Kōsaku : Song without words
Work Overview
Genre:romance
Total Playing Time:3 min 00 sec
Copyright:Needs Research
Commentary (2)
Author : Sugiura, Nanako
Last Updated: April 14, 2024
[Open]
Author : Sugiura, Nanako
Composed in 1909.
Based on the autograph manuscript Ms.1057 and the engraver's copy Bc.136 (both held at the Museum of Modern Music), Yamada Kōsaku: Piano Works Miscellany Vol. 1 'Early Works in Classical Style' (Commentary: Akatsuki Takaku, Edited and Collated: Nanako Sugiura) was published by Muse Press in 2022.
It is believed that Yamada, who admired Mendelssohn, composed this piece under his influence. In 6/8 time, marked Langsam.
Author : Sugiura, Nanako
Last Updated: April 14, 2024
[Open]
Author : Sugiura, Nanako
Performance Tips
At the opening marked 'dolce', play the melody sweetly and expressively, as if singing a 'song without words'. While frequent dynamic markings are a characteristic feature of Yamada's scores, observe the essential points without being overly swayed by the literal markings; instead, feel the broader flow and sing naturally.
In the middle section, from measure 17, the time signature changes to 4/8, and the triplet figures create a sense of urgency, a stark contrast to the preceding tranquility. Against this backdrop, the melody is played with a rich sound of double stops and chords. Here, one should strive to deliver a passionate song. From measure 28 in the recapitulation, a sense of relief will be felt as tranquility is restored. Crescendos, diminuendos, and dynamic markings are also fewer than at the beginning; by surrendering to the quiet, undulating waves and savoring the beautiful melody that reappears, one can experience the unique sense of happiness inherent in Yamada's lyrical miniatures of this kind.