Father of the Nocturne
The Irish Composer John Field invented the Nocturne. A Nocturne is a short composition of a romantic or dreamy character suggestive of night, typically for piano.
John Field was born in Dublin, Ireland on July 26th, 1782. He made his debut as a pianist in Dublin when he was nine years old.
He is credited with being one of the earliest to develop the use of the sustain pedal on the piano,
Often people associate "Frederick Chopin" with Nocturnes, but it was Chopin who was inspired by John Field's piano technique and composing style that led to him also writing beautiful Nocturnes.
Field published his first Nocturne in 1812, and his final 17th and 18th nocturne were published after his death. He died January 23rd, 1837.
As you listen to his music what emotions and images come into your head?
Emotions: HAPPY, SAD, EXCITED, NERVOUS or SURPRISED?
Type of Weather: RAINBOW, LIGHTENING, RAIN, SNOW, TORNADO, STORM, SUN or WIND?
Colours: RED, YELLOW, BLUE, GREEN, BLACK, WHITE or GREY?
Grab a piece of paper and draw the images that come into your head.