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Armenian Dances (part I)




The Armenian Dances are a four-movement suite; this Part I is the first movement, while Part II consists of the other three movements. Part I includes five distinct sections:
# ''Tzirani Tzar'' (''The Apricot Tree'') ( Mm . 1–29), which opens the piece, begins with a short Brass Fanfare and runs in the Woodwind s. This sentimental song consists of three related melodies.
# ''Gakavi Yerk'' (''The Partridge 's Song'') (mm. 30–68), an original composition by Vardapet, has a simple melody which is first stated in the woodwinds and then repeated by the brass. Its simple, delicate melody was intended for a children’s choir and is symbolic of that bird’s tiny steps.
# ''Hoy, Nazan Eem'' (''Hoy, My Nazan'') (mm. 69–185) is a lively dance, mostly in 5/8 Time , which naturally imposes an unusual pattern of Additive Meter . In this song, a young man sings the praises of his beloved, named Nazan.
# '' Alagyaz '' (mm. 186–223), a folk song named for a mountain in Armenia, is a broad and majestic song; it serves as a contrast to the fast, upbeat songs that come both before and after.
# ''Gna, Gna'' (''Go, Go'') (mm. 224–422) is a delightful and humorous laughing-song in 2/4 time; it builds in volume and speed until the exciting conclusion of the piece.


SEE ALSO



REFERENCES

  • Program Note by Alfred Reed, from the score to ''Armenian Dances (Part I)''

  • Historical Note by Dr. Violet Vagramian, Florida International University , from the score to ''Armenian Dances (Part I)''