Composer

:

Wolfgang Rihm

Genre

:

Concerto

Style

:

Concerto

Compose Date

:

1975 - 1976

First Performance

:

Apr 3, 1977

Average_duration

:

18:15

Lichtzwang is a contemporary classical composition by German composer Wolfgang Rihm. It was composed in 1992 and premiered on October 17, 1992, in Donaueschingen, Germany. The piece is divided into three movements and has a total duration of approximately 25 minutes. The first movement, titled "Lichtzwang I," is characterized by its intense and dissonant harmonies. The music is marked by sudden shifts in dynamics and tempo, creating a sense of tension and urgency. The movement features a prominent use of percussion, including timpani, snare drum, and cymbals, which add to the overall sense of drama. The second movement, "Lichtzwang II," is more introspective and contemplative. The music is slower and more spacious, with long, sustained notes and a more subdued use of percussion. The harmonies are still dissonant, but they are more subdued and less aggressive than in the first movement. The movement features a prominent solo violin part, which adds to the overall sense of introspection. The final movement, "Lichtzwang III," is the most explosive and dramatic of the three. The music is marked by sudden shifts in dynamics and tempo, with moments of intense dissonance and moments of relative calm. The percussion is once again prominent, with the addition of a bass drum and tam-tam adding to the overall sense of drama. The movement builds to a frenzied climax before coming to a sudden and abrupt end. Overall, Lichtzwang is a challenging and complex work that showcases Rihm's mastery of contemporary classical composition. The piece is marked by its intense and dissonant harmonies, sudden shifts in dynamics and tempo, and prominent use of percussion. Despite its challenging nature, however, Lichtzwang is a deeply rewarding work that rewards careful listening and attention to detail.

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