In a comfortable re-voicing of a Saint-Saens classic, lush chords and counterpoint intertwine to perfectly encapsulate stepping outside to beautiful star-lit night. Approachable and awe-inspiring, this piece brings a dream-like quality perfect for adding a bit of French flavor to any program.

Composer’s Notes

As the world gets smaller and more interconnected, it’s no surprise that solitude has become more of a luxury. But the humbling power of gazing up at an evening blanket of stars remains a common avenue for exploring the depths and hidden corners that often aren’t noticeable with the brightness and busyness of the day. The true challenge (and opportunity!) with this piece is breathing, being careful to find a comfortable balance between giving the phrase the energy it needs and keeping the tempo reflective of the vivid and sensitive poetic imagery. Of course, measure 28 is a wonderful opportunity to reverse that balance in a sudden and vibrant way, making the rest of the piece seem even more sensitive by contrast.

-Chris Foss

Text

Calme des nuits, fraîcheur des soirs,
Vaste scintillement des mondes,
Grand silence des antres noirs
Vous charmez les âmes profondes.
L’éclat du soleil, la gaité,
Le bruit plaisent aux plus futiles;
Le poète seul est hanté
Par l’amour des choses tranquilles.

-Anonymous

TRANSLATION:
Calm of the night, cool of the evening,
Vast shimmering of the spheres,
Great silence of black vaults
Deep thinkers delight in you.
The bright sun, merriment,
And noise amuse the more frivolous;
Only the poet is possessed
By the love of quiet things.

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