Composer

:

Morton Feldman

Genre

:

Chamber

Style

:

Open Form

Compose Date

:

1961

Average_duration

:

16:39

Durations 5 is a composition by Morton Feldman, an American composer known for his experimental and avant-garde approach to music. The piece was composed in 1961 and premiered on May 16, 1961, at the University of Illinois in Urbana-Champaign. Durations 5 is a single movement work that lasts approximately 25 minutes. The piece is scored for a small ensemble consisting of flute, trumpet, piano, violin, and cello. The instrumentation is sparse, and the performers are instructed to play very softly throughout the piece. The piece is characterized by its use of silence and extended durations. Feldman was interested in exploring the concept of time in his music, and Durations 5 is a prime example of this. The piece is made up of long, sustained tones that gradually shift and change over time. The performers are instructed to play with a sense of detachment, allowing the music to unfold naturally without any overt expression or emotion. One of the most striking features of Durations 5 is its use of silence. Feldman was known for his use of silence in his music, and in this piece, he takes it to an extreme. The piece is punctuated by long periods of silence, which serve to heighten the listener's awareness of the sounds that come before and after. Overall, Durations 5 is a challenging and thought-provoking work that pushes the boundaries of traditional musical forms. Its use of silence and extended durations creates a unique listening experience that is both meditative and contemplative.

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