Harma (lament) from Icelandic Suite

The third installment (and middle movement) in the Icelandic Suite for Piano Solo.

This movement is slow and poignant, often even lethargic. It relies heavily on quartal harmonies, diminished 5ths, and whole tone scales to convey a sense of listlessness and loss (my emotions, at least). The inspiration comes from deep mourning and melancholy, looking out on a rain-drenched day. I hope it finds resonance with your soul, too.

Also, I'm not sure how I feel about the length of the piece. Bar for bar, it's shorter than the other two movements thus far, but the sluggish tempo makes it longer in duration. I tried to keep it interesting by modulating and varying the melodies/accompaniments, but I'm worried it may become too boring. I'd greatly appreciate your thoughts about this—and about the piece in general.

Thanks, and happy listening!

I think the length is not a problem but it seems you rely most of the time in the same motif. Although it changes in shape and harmony is omnipresent. In the left hand that scheme like a chord apoggiatura becomes predictable. But that's how you wanted it to be.

4 hours ago, Luis Hernández said:

I think the length is not a problem but it seems you rely most of the time in the same motif. Although it changes in shape and harmony is omnipresent. In the left hand that scheme like a chord apoggiatura becomes predictable. But that's how you wanted it to be.

 

Thanks, Luis! I wanted to give the piece some semblance of familiarity, since the harmonies are so unconventional. I also wanted to make the piece seem mundane and create a feeling of "caught in a rut." I hope I didn't overuse the same motifs...

Don't worry. I believe the composer has total control of what he/she wants. What others say are just opinions. I don't believe in rules, at all. Unless you want to do something like strict counterpoint or things like that.

Overall, your piece is fantastic. In some way, this suite makes me imagine how Iceland is, emotionally. I'd love to visit that country... Someday....