Composer

:

Iannis Xenakis

Genre

:

Chamber

Style

:

Chamber Music

Compose Date

:

1992

"Paille in the wind" is a composition by the Greek-French composer Iannis Xenakis. It was composed in 1987 and premiered on October 16, 1987, at the Théâtre de la Ville in Paris. The piece is divided into three movements and is scored for a large orchestra. The first movement, titled "Lent," begins with a series of long, sustained notes played by the strings. The woodwinds and brass then enter, playing short, staccato notes that contrast with the strings. The movement builds in intensity, with the percussion adding to the rhythmic complexity. The movement ends with a sudden, dramatic chord played by the entire orchestra. The second movement, titled "Animé," is much faster and more frenetic than the first. The strings play rapid, swirling figures while the woodwinds and brass play jagged, angular lines. The percussion adds to the sense of chaos, with the snare drum and bass drum driving the rhythm forward. The movement ends with a sudden, explosive chord played by the entire orchestra. The third movement, titled "Très lent," is the slowest and most contemplative of the three. The strings play long, mournful lines while the woodwinds and brass play soft, delicate figures. The percussion is used sparingly, adding subtle accents to the texture. The movement ends with a quiet, introspective chord played by the entire orchestra. Overall, "Paille in the wind" is a complex and challenging work that showcases Xenakis's mastery of orchestration and his unique approach to musical form. The piece is characterized by its use of complex rhythms, dense textures, and sudden shifts in dynamics and mood. It is a powerful and evocative work that demands the listener's full attention.

More....