Work Overview

• Publication Year: 1932
• First Publisher: R. Deiss
• Instrumentation: Piano solo
• Total Performance Time: Approximately 10 minutes (3-4 minutes per piece)

Written in 1932, based on impressions from a stay in Portugal in 1931. Around this time, Milhaud's works began to acquire a distinctive character and stability. The suite consists of three pieces: “Septembre,” which depicts the melancholy characteristic of Europe's early autumn; “Alfama,” which vividly portrays the bustling entertainment district of Lisbon's old town; and “Adieu,” which transforms the popular fado songs played by street musicians in bars into a nostalgic slow motion. It was dedicated to Marcelle Meyer and premiered by her in June 1932. Meyer was an ally of Milhaud since the “Les Six” era and one of the essential pianists for his works. Their good relationship continued after this work, and in 1937, she became the commissioner and first performer of Scaramouche(Op. 165b). Marguerite Long, Meyer's teacher, left a historical recording of “Alfama” (1935).

As it was written with the virtuoso Meyer in mind, this work is adorned with brilliant technique. “Alfama,” in particular, has a crisp and pleasing progression, rich in an improvisational quality reminiscent of a concerto cadenza, creating a unique effect. In a later conversation with Claude Rostand (1951), Milhaud expressed his pleasure at the popularity of Scaramouche but specifically mentioned Printemps and Automne, regretting that they were not played. Automne is a compact and manageable suite that is rewarding to practice due to its impressive sound, and playing it would likely be welcomed by the composer, even from beyond the grave.

Movements

• Movement 1: Septembre

• Tempo: Allant (Lively)
• Time Signature: 4/4
• Completion: Completed in Villeflix in March 1932.

• Movement 2: Alfama

• Tempo: Vif et Gai (Fast and Cheerful)
• Time Signature: 4/4
• Completion: No completion date recorded.

• Movement 3: Adieu

• Tempo: Lent (Slow)
• Time Signature: 4/4
• Completion: Completed in Paris on April 1, 1932.