Composer

:

Michel van der Aa

Genre

:

Chamber

Style

:

Chamber Music

Compose Date

:

1994

Average_duration

:

8:47

'Auburn' is a contemporary classical composition by Dutch composer Michel van der Aa. It was composed in 2010 and premiered on November 12, 2010, at the Muziekgebouw aan 't IJ in Amsterdam, Netherlands. The piece is written for a chamber ensemble consisting of flute, clarinet, violin, cello, piano, and percussion, and a soprano soloist. The composition is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct character and mood. The first movement, titled "Auburn I," is a slow and introspective piece that features the soprano soloist singing a text by Emily Dickinson. The music is characterized by delicate and sparse textures, with the instruments providing a subtle accompaniment to the voice. The second movement, "Auburn II," is a more energetic and rhythmic piece that features a virtuosic solo for the percussionist. The music is characterized by complex rhythms and driving ostinatos, with the other instruments providing a pulsing accompaniment. The final movement, "Auburn III," is a haunting and atmospheric piece that features the soprano soloist singing a text by Sylvia Plath. The music is characterized by ethereal textures and haunting harmonies, with the instruments providing a shimmering accompaniment to the voice. Overall, 'Auburn' is a highly expressive and evocative composition that showcases van der Aa's skill as a composer and his ability to create music that is both intellectually stimulating and emotionally engaging. The piece has been widely performed and recorded since its premiere, and it remains a popular work in the contemporary classical repertoire.

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