La Bonne Chanson (Fauré)
La Bonne Chanson is a song cycle by Gabriel Fauré, Opus 61, composed between 1892 and 1894. It is a setting of nine poems by Paul Verlaine. The cycle is dedicated to Emma Bardac, with whom Fauré was romantically involved at the time of its composition, and who later became Claude Debussy's wife.
The poems, taken from Verlaine's collection of the same name, explore themes of love, happiness, and anticipation of marriage. Musically, the cycle represents a shift in Fauré's style towards greater harmonic complexity and emotional intensity. It is considered a significant work in the French mélodie repertoire.
The nine songs are:
- Une sainte en son auréole!
- Puisque l'aube grandit
- La lune blanche luit dans les bois
- J'allais par des chemins perfides
- J'ai presque peur, en vérité
- Avant que tu ne t'en ailles
- Donc, ce sera par un clair jour d'été
- N'est-ce pas?
- L'hiver a cessé
The cycle is usually performed by a tenor or soprano and piano, though Fauré also orchestrated the piece. The orchestration is less frequently performed. "La Bonne Chanson" is noted for its lyrical melodies, expressive harmonies, and sophisticated word-setting. It is considered one of Fauré's finest achievements and a cornerstone of the French art song tradition.