3 Chansons de Metiers

Gabriel Pierné (1863-1937) was a French composer, conductor and organist. Despite being predominantly remembered as a conductor, his Trois Chansons De Métiers remains arecognised piece in the Vocal repertoire.

Pierné studied at the Paris Conservatoire before taking up the position of chief conductor for the concert series, Concerts Colonne in 1910. He remained in thepost until 1933, and during this time, he notably conducted the world premiere of Igor Stravinsky's The Firebird. Pierné composed for a variety of instruments.  Trois ChansonsDeMétiers is arranged for two vocal groups and contains many characteristics typical of the French style, such as lyrical melodies, a significant amount performance directions, flourishes of semiquavers, chromaticism and many changes in dynamics.  Trois Chansons De Métiers, 1) The Tailor, 2) The Shoemakers, and 3) The Rope Maker, is a varied piece, essential to the repertoire of aspiring choristers.