Composer

:

Elliott Carter

Genre

:

Chamber

Style

:

Fantasy

Compose Date

:

2007

Figment No. 4 is a solo cello piece composed by Elliott Carter in 2009. It was premiered on March 26, 2009, by cellist Fred Sherry at the Miller Theatre in New York City. The piece is part of a series of solo instrumental works that Carter composed in his later years, collectively titled "Figments." Figment No. 4 is a single-movement work that lasts approximately six minutes. The piece is characterized by its use of extended techniques, such as harmonics, glissandi, and pizzicato, as well as its complex rhythmic and melodic structures. The cello is often asked to play rapid, virtuosic passages that require a high level of technical skill. The piece begins with a series of harmonics that gradually build in intensity, leading to a more rhythmic section that features pizzicato and glissandi. The middle section of the piece is marked by a slower, more lyrical melody that is interrupted by sudden bursts of virtuosic playing. The final section of the piece returns to the opening material, with the harmonics gradually fading away to a quiet conclusion. Overall, Figment No. 4 is a challenging and complex work that showcases Carter's mastery of contemporary compositional techniques. The piece requires a high level of technical skill and musical sensitivity from the performer, making it a popular choice for advanced cellists looking to expand their repertoire.

More....