An Analysis of Honegger’s Cello Concerto (1929): a Return to Simplicity?

• Main Author: Kleinmann, Denika Lam
• Other Authors: Osadchy, Eugene
• Format: Others
• Language: English
• Published: University of North Texas 2014
• Subjects: Honegger; cello concerto; Lex Six; simplicity
• Online Access: https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc500189/

Literature available on Honegger’s Cello Concerto suggests this concerto is often considered as a composition that resonates with Les Six traditions. While reflecting currents of Les Six, the Cello Concerto also features departures from Erik Satie’s and Jean Cocteau’s ideal for French composers to return to simplicity. Both characteristics of and departures from Les Six examined in this concerto include metric organization, thematic and rhythmic development, melodic wedge shapes, contrapuntal techniques, simplicity in orchestration, diatonicism, the use of humor, jazz influences, and other unique performance techniques.