Composer

:

Ivan Wyschnegradsky

Genre

:

Chamber

Compose Date

:

1918

Average_duration

:

7:33

Ivan Wyschnegradsky's "Méditation sur deux thèmes de La Journée de l'Existence (semitone), Op. 7" is a composition for solo piano that was completed in 1913. The piece was premiered in Paris in 1914, and it consists of two movements. The first movement of the piece is marked "Lent" and is based on a theme from Wyschnegradsky's opera "La Journée de l'Existence." The theme is presented in a slow and contemplative manner, with the use of semitones creating a sense of tension and unease. The harmonies are dissonant and complex, with the use of chromaticism and non-traditional chord progressions. The second movement is marked "Très lent" and is based on a second theme from the same opera. This movement is even more introspective and meditative than the first, with a slower tempo and a more sparse texture. The use of semitones is even more pronounced in this movement, with the melody often moving in half-steps and creating a sense of ambiguity and uncertainty. Overall, "Méditation sur deux thèmes de La Journée de l'Existence (semitone), Op. 7" is a haunting and introspective work that showcases Wyschnegradsky's unique approach to harmony and melody. The use of semitones creates a sense of tension and unease, while the slow and contemplative tempo allows the listener to fully immerse themselves in the complex and dissonant harmonies.

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