Spinning Song

Form and Structure

This composition is in composite or compound song form. Part I extends
through measure 26 and consists of a Three-period Primary Song Form. After two
introductory measures which set the drone bass suggestive of the hum of the
spinning wheel, the principal theme in F major is stated in measures 3-10. The
secondary theme, over a dominant pedal-point, occupies measures 11-18, and is
followed by an exact repetition of the principal theme.

Part II includes measures 27-51. The little motive stated in measures 27-30
is "developed" through sequential and modulatory treatment. The keys touched
upon are B-Flat Major, C Minor, G Minor, and A Major.

Part III is a repetition of Part I, with the final cadence extended to form a
kind of codetta, and bring the piece to a definite close.

Interpretation

The incessant whir of the busy spinning wheel is suggested in Parts I and III
by the staccato bass-notes; in Part II by the repeated double-notes in the
right-hand part. Keep the hum of the wheel soft, so that it will make a
background for the song.

The right hand has the song of the spinner, throughout, with the exception of
measures 27-42 where the left hand takes its turn at the melody. Watch the
phrasing; play the staccato thirds in measures 11-18 crisply; follow the
dynamic indications carefully. The right-hand notes in measures 27-42 and the
left-hand notes in measures 43-49 should be non-legato rather than staccato.

Spinning Song has been
published many time in piano books and has also been arranged for various
instrumental ensembles, clarinet choir and brass quartet). Spinning Song is
evidently #4 of his Opus 14. Perhaps this will help someone else since the
information presented here was very difficult to find. Maybe someone else will
have more information to add since this is a stock piece in the piano
repetoire for budding pianist and at our performing arts academy the students
are required to produce programs notes for their recitals and this was very
illusive for such a famous piece and thus the reason I became involved in the
search. If you have more information about this composer please send it
to <AcademyofOLO@aol.com>.