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Theme and Variations in C minor

Lili Boulanger

About the composer
Lili Boulanger, a child prodigy born in Paris, displayed musical talent from a very early age. Raised in a family of musicians, she studied various instruments and attended the Paris Conservatoire with her sister Nadia. Despite facing health challenges, including pneumonia, she patiently waited to pursue formal musical education. Under the guidance of teachers like Georges Caussade and Paul Vidal, she eventually studied harmony and composition. Throughout her career, her sister Nadia remained a dedicated supporter and friend. In 1913, Lili Boulanger became the first woman to win the prestigious Prix de Rome for her cantata Faust et Hélène. This achievement led to a publishing contract with Ricordi. Meanwhile, Nadia, impressed by Lili's talents, focused on her role as an assistant in Henri Dallier's organ class at the Conservatoire. Lili's works were noted for their colorful harmony, innovative instrumentation, and skillful text setting, influenced by composers like Gabriel Fauré and Claude Debussy. Lili Boulanger's life was marked by chronic illness, including bronchial pneumonia at the age of two, which weakened her immune system. Despite her failing health, she continued to compose and support French soldiers during World War I. Her death at the age of 24 left her opera La princesse Maleine unfinished. Boulanger's music, fitting into a post-Romantic style, reflected the musical transitions of her time, embracing elements of Symbolism and Impressionism. Her compositions often conveyed themes of isolation, alienation, and her personal struggles with depression and loneliness.
To learn more about Boulanger click here.
Who's this piece for?
Ideal for advanced pianists looking for a unique experience and want to learn new styles and techniques.
5+ pages
Modern
C minor

MOOD: Dark, serious and dramatic.

TECHNIQUE: Block chords.

Ranking
Equivalent to RCM diploma level
This piece is beyond all ABRSM levels
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1912

Chinese Republic proclaimed after a revolution overthrows Manchu dynasty.

1912

New Mexico and Arizona admitted as states of the U.S.

1912

Titanic sinks on its first voyage.

1913

Stravinsky's The Rite of Spring premieres in Paris.

1914

Theme and Variations was composed by L. Boulanger at the age of 21 years old.

1914

World War I begins with the assassination of Austrian Archduke Francis Ferdinand.

1915

Alexander Scriabin died.

1917

First American combat troops in France as the U.S. declares war on Germany.

1917

Russian Revolution begins.

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