Composer

:

Alvin Curran

Genre

:

Electronic/Computer

Style

:

Electronic/Computer Music

Average_duration

:

17:36

For Cornelius is a contemporary classical composition by American composer Alvin Curran. It was composed in 1997 and premiered on October 18, 1997, at the Teatro Comunale di Ferrara in Italy. The piece is dedicated to Cornelius Cardew, a British composer and political activist who was a close friend and collaborator of Curran. For Cornelius is a single-movement work that lasts approximately 50 minutes. The piece is scored for a large ensemble of 100 musicians, including a choir, soloists, and a variety of instruments such as strings, brass, woodwinds, percussion, and electronics. The composition is divided into several sections, each with its own distinct character and mood. The opening section of For Cornelius is marked by a slow, meditative pace and features a solo cello accompanied by a choir singing a text by Cardew. This section gradually builds in intensity, with the addition of more instruments and voices, before giving way to a more lively and rhythmic section featuring percussion and brass. Throughout the piece, Curran incorporates a variety of musical styles and techniques, including improvisation, extended techniques, and electronic manipulation of acoustic sounds. The composition also features a number of soloists, including a soprano, a tenor saxophonist, and a trumpet player, who are given opportunities to showcase their virtuosity and musicality. One of the defining characteristics of For Cornelius is its use of text and vocalization. In addition to the choir, the piece features a number of spoken and sung texts, including excerpts from Cardew's writings and speeches, as well as poetry by Curran and others. These texts are often layered and interwoven with the music, creating a complex and multi-layered sonic tapestry. Overall, For Cornelius is a powerful and deeply personal work that reflects Curran's admiration for Cardew and his commitment to exploring new musical possibilities. Through its use of diverse musical styles, vocalization, and text, the composition creates a rich and immersive listening experience that is both challenging and rewarding.

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