Composer

:

Giacinto Scelsi

Genre

:

Chamber

Style

:

Open Form

Compose Date

:

1958

Average_duration

:

12:18

I Presagi is a composition for orchestra by Italian composer Giacinto Scelsi. It was composed in 1958 and premiered on May 15, 1959, in Rome, Italy. The piece is divided into three movements and has a total duration of approximately 20 minutes. The first movement, titled "Il Risveglio degli Dei" (The Awakening of the Gods), begins with a low rumble in the basses and timpani, gradually building in intensity as the rest of the orchestra joins in. The music is characterized by dissonant harmonies and a sense of foreboding, as if something ominous is about to happen. The movement ends with a sudden, violent outburst from the brass and percussion. The second movement, "La Nascita degli Dei" (The Birth of the Gods), is more subdued than the first. It begins with a solo flute playing a simple, haunting melody, which is then taken up by the rest of the orchestra. The music is characterized by long, sustained notes and a sense of mystery and wonder. The movement ends with a return to the opening melody, played by the solo flute. The final movement, "La Morte degli Dei" (The Death of the Gods), is the most intense and dramatic of the three. It begins with a series of violent, dissonant chords, which gradually give way to a more lyrical section featuring the strings. The music becomes increasingly frenzied and chaotic, with the brass and percussion playing a prominent role. The movement ends with a sudden, violent outburst from the entire orchestra, bringing the piece to a dramatic close. Overall, I Presagi is a powerful and evocative work that showcases Scelsi's unique approach to orchestration and harmony. The piece is characterized by its use of dissonant harmonies, sudden shifts in dynamics, and a sense of drama and tension that builds throughout the three movements. It is a challenging work for both performers and listeners, but one that rewards close attention and repeated listening.

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