Composer

:

Beat Furrer

Genre

:

Chamber

Compose Date

:

1993

Average_duration

:

8:59

'Lied for violin & piano' is a contemporary classical composition by Swiss-Austrian composer Beat Furrer. The piece was composed in 2011 and premiered on October 22, 2011, at the Klangspuren Schwaz Festival in Austria. The composition consists of three movements, each with its own distinct character and mood. The first movement, marked "sehr langsam" (very slow), is a hauntingly beautiful melody played by the violin over a sparse piano accompaniment. The second movement, marked "sehr schnell" (very fast), is a frenzied and intense section with rapid-fire runs and jagged rhythms. The final movement, marked "sehr ruhig" (very calm), returns to the melancholic mood of the first movement, with the violin and piano weaving together in a delicate and introspective duet. One of the defining characteristics of 'Lied for violin & piano' is its use of extended techniques. Furrer employs a variety of unconventional playing techniques to create unique and otherworldly sounds from the violin and piano. These techniques include bowing behind the bridge, playing harmonics, and using the piano as a percussion instrument by striking the strings with mallets or plucking them directly. Another notable aspect of the composition is its use of silence and space. Furrer allows for moments of stillness and quiet, creating a sense of tension and anticipation that heightens the emotional impact of the music. Overall, 'Lied for violin & piano' is a stunning example of contemporary classical music, showcasing Furrer's innovative approach to composition and his ability to create evocative and deeply moving music.

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