Composer

:

Stephen Barber

Genre

:

Miscellaneous

Style

:

Miscellaneous

Compose Date

:

1993

Average_duration

:

21:42

"Semahane Whirling Wall" is a contemporary classical composition by Stephen Barber, premiered in 2015. The piece is inspired by the Sufi ritual of sema, a form of whirling meditation that is practiced by the followers of the Mevlevi order. The sema is a spiritual journey that involves the whirling of the dervishes, who spin in a circular motion while listening to music and reciting prayers. The composition is divided into three movements, each of which represents a different aspect of the sema ritual. The first movement, titled "Invocation," is a slow and meditative piece that sets the tone for the entire composition. It features a solo cello that plays a mournful melody, accompanied by a drone-like sound that represents the sound of the semazen's breath as they begin to whirl. The second movement, titled "Whirling," is the most dynamic and energetic part of the composition. It features a full orchestra that plays a fast and rhythmic melody, evoking the spinning motion of the dervishes. The music builds in intensity, reaching a climax that represents the ecstatic state that the semazen strive to achieve through their whirling. The final movement, titled "Silence," is a slow and contemplative piece that represents the end of the sema ritual. It features a solo violin that plays a haunting melody, accompanied by a sparse and minimalist orchestration. The music gradually fades away, leaving the listener with a sense of peace and tranquility. Overall, "Semahane Whirling Wall" is a powerful and evocative composition that captures the essence of the sema ritual. It combines traditional Sufi music with contemporary classical elements, creating a unique and immersive listening experience.

More....