Composer

:

Bernd Alois Zimmermann

Genre

:

Chamber

Style

:

Ballet

Compose Date

:

1961

Average_duration

:

28:05

Movement_count

:

5

Movement ....

Presence, ballet blanc in five scenes is a composition by Bernd Alois Zimmermann, a German composer known for his avant-garde and experimental style. The ballet was composed in 1961 and premiered on May 12, 1961, at the Deutsche Oper in Berlin. The ballet consists of five scenes, each with its own distinct character and musical style. The first scene, titled "Introduction," sets the tone for the rest of the ballet with its slow, atmospheric music. The second scene, "The Garden of Delight," is a lively and playful dance that features a solo violin and a harp. The third scene, "The Dance of Death," is a dark and ominous piece that features dissonant chords and a haunting melody. The fourth scene, "The Dance of the Angels," is a beautiful and ethereal piece that features a solo flute and a choir. The final scene, "The Epilogue," brings the ballet to a close with a slow and reflective piece that features a solo cello. Presence is known for its use of unconventional instrumentation and its avant-garde style. Zimmermann incorporates electronic sounds and unconventional instruments, such as a prepared piano and a tape recorder, into the score. The ballet also features a large orchestra, a choir, and several soloists. Overall, Presence is a complex and challenging work that showcases Zimmermann's unique musical style. It is a testament to his innovative approach to composition and his willingness to push the boundaries of traditional classical music.

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