Accompanied by pianist Michel Dalberto, Gautier Capuçon plays Sicilienne, Op. 78, a short work by Gabriel Fauré, composed in 1893. It was originally an orchestral piece, written for a theatrical production that was abandoned. In 1898, Fauré arranged the unperformed music as a work for cello and piano.
Gabriel Fauré’s Sicilienne
Gabriel Fauré’s Sicilienne, Op. 78, is a cherished piece of classical music originally composed in 1893 as part of the incidental music for Molière’s play “Le Bourgeois Gentilhomme” (translated as The Bourgeois Gentleman, The Middle-Class Aristocrat, or The Would-Be Noble).
Although the play was never produced, Fauré later adapted the piece for cello and piano in 1898. The Sicilienne subsequently became part of the incidental music for Maurice Maeterlinck’s play “Pelléas et Mélisande,” for which Fauré composed an orchestral suite.
The piece is characterized by its gentle, flowing melody and distinctive rhythm, typical of the Siciliana dance form, often associated with pastoral scenes. Its lilting, dotted rhythm and serene, lyrical lines evoke a sense of nostalgia and delicate beauty. Written in a minor key, the piece has a touch of melancholy that complements its graceful and elegant character.
“Sicilienne” opens with a tender, melodic theme introduced by the cello, accompanied by a simple yet expressive piano part. The dialogue between the cello and piano is seamless, with the piano providing a supportive harmonic foundation while the cello weaves the main melodic material. The middle section offers a contrast with more dynamic interplay and variation before returning to the opening theme, bringing the piece to a gentle and reflective conclusion.
The charm of the piece lies in its simplicity and emotional depth, making it a favorite among cellists and audiences alike. It has been transcribed for various instruments and ensembles, demonstrating its versatility and enduring popularity.
Sources
- Sicilienne (Fauré) on Wikipedia
- Sicilienne, Op.78 (Fauré, Gabriel) on the International Music Score Library Website
