Composer

:

Ron Ford

Genre

:

Chamber

Style

:

Chamber Music

Average_duration

:

8:06

"Cross" is a contemporary chamber music piece composed by Ron Ford. It was composed in 1995 and premiered on March 3, 1996, at the University of California, San Diego. The piece consists of four movements, each with its own unique characteristics. The first movement, "Crossing," begins with a slow and mysterious introduction, featuring the vibraphone and piano. The flute and clarinet then enter, playing a haunting melody that is passed back and forth between the two instruments. The movement builds to a climax before fading away into a quiet and introspective coda. The second movement, "Crossroads," is more upbeat and rhythmic. The piano and vibraphone provide a driving pulse while the other instruments play syncopated melodies. The movement features several solos, including a virtuosic clarinet solo and a lyrical violin solo. The third movement, "Crosscurrents," is the most experimental of the four. It features extended techniques such as flutter-tonguing on the flute and clarinet, and bowing on the vibraphone. The movement is characterized by its unpredictable rhythms and sudden shifts in texture and dynamics. The final movement, "Crossing Over," is a slow and contemplative piece that brings the work to a peaceful conclusion. The movement features a beautiful melody played by the violin and viola, accompanied by gentle arpeggios on the piano and vibraphone. The piece ends with a quiet and introspective coda, bringing the work to a peaceful close. Overall, "Cross" is a challenging and rewarding work for performers and audiences alike. Its use of extended techniques and unconventional rhythms make it a unique and exciting addition to the contemporary chamber music repertoire.

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