Composer

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Arthur Farwell

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Keyboard

Style

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Keyboard

'From Mesa to Plain, Op. 20' is a composition by Arthur Farwell, an American composer who was known for his incorporation of Native American music into his works. The piece was composed in 1909 and premiered in the same year in New York City. The composition is divided into three movements, each of which represents a different aspect of the American landscape. The first movement, titled "Mesa," is characterized by its use of syncopated rhythms and pentatonic scales, which are reminiscent of Native American music. The movement is also marked by its use of a solo flute, which plays a haunting melody that is meant to evoke the vast, open spaces of the mesa. The second movement, titled "Canyon," is more introspective in nature. It features a slower tempo and a more contemplative melody, which is played by the strings. The movement is marked by its use of dissonant harmonies, which are meant to represent the rugged, rocky terrain of the canyon. The final movement, titled "Plain," is the most upbeat and energetic of the three. It features a lively melody that is played by the brass and percussion, and is characterized by its use of syncopated rhythms and driving tempo. The movement is meant to evoke the vast, open spaces of the American plains, and is marked by its use of a soaring, triumphant melody that is meant to represent the spirit of the American people. Overall, 'From Mesa to Plain, Op. 20' is a powerful and evocative composition that showcases Farwell's unique style and his ability to incorporate Native American music into his works. Its use of syncopated rhythms, pentatonic scales, and dissonant harmonies make it a truly unique and memorable piece of American music.

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