Introduction

In 2001 a rather unassuming sleeper hit movie called ‘Amelie’ was released. The iconic French city of Paris provides the backdrop for this film about a young girl trying to find her place in the world. All of the music was composed by French composer Yann Tiersen. Tiersen wrote the soundtrack for piano but thankfully the transcription wasn’t too difficult and is even able to played in the original key without too much difficulty.

“Comptine d’un autre été: L’après-midi,” is a beautifully evocative piece that has captured the hearts of listeners around the world. The original piano composition was written in the key of E minor therefore it sits well on the guitar. Although the piece itself is fairly repetitive and simple the diligent classical guitar student should note that there are 4 basic picking patterns that should be studied.

Yann Tiersen, a French musician and composer, is known for his unique style that blends classical, folk, and popular music elements. “Comptine d’un autre été” is one of his most recognizable compositions, characterized by its simple yet hauntingly beautiful melody. The piece’s repetitive, flowing motifs create a sense of nostalgia and introspection, making it a favorite among both performers and audiences.

Transcribing “Comptine d’un autre été” for classical guitar allows the instrument’s expressive capabilities to shine. The guitarist must capture the piece’s delicate phrasing and subtle dynamics, navigating its lyrical lines with sensitivity and precision. The guitar’s warm, resonant tones add a new layer of depth to Tiersen’s composition, enhancing its emotional impact.

Performing “Comptine d’un autre été” on classical guitar requires a refined touch and a keen sense of musicality. The guitarist must bring out the piece’s lyrical quality while maintaining the rhythmic flow that defines its character. This transcription offers guitarists a chance to explore Tiersen’s enchanting musical world, making it a cherished addition to the classical guitar repertoire, noting the following:

• Use open strings where possible to make shifts smoother and easier

• Memorise and practice the 4 obvious picking patterns

• Try different tonal variations to bring the piece to life during repetitive sections

• Use pivot, preparation and guide finger techniques where possible to improve shifting

Musical Style

Yann Tiersen’s musical style is a unique blend of classical, folk, and contemporary elements, characterized by its emotive melodies and minimalist arrangements. His compositions often feature repetitive motifs that create a hypnotic and introspective atmosphere. Tiersen’s use of diverse instrumentation, including piano, violin, accordion, and guitar, adds a rich textural depth to his music. His work is deeply influenced by French folk traditions, yet it seamlessly incorporates modern and alternative sounds. Tiersen’s music, while often melancholic, also possesses a whimsical quality that has resonated with a wide audience, particularly through his film scores, which have brought his evocative compositions to international acclaim.

Notable Pieces

Five notable pieces by Yann Tiersen:

• Comptine d’un autre été: L’après-midi

• La Valse d’Amélie

• J’y suis jamais allé

• Sur le fil

• Les Jours tristes

Let your fingers fly!

Course Instructor

Joshua Rogers Author

A teacher and lover of all things guitar!