Composer

:

Thomas Masella

Genre

:

Chamber

Style

:

Quartet

Compose Date

:

1998

Average_duration

:

7:53

"Lyrics (3) for saxophone quartet" is a contemporary classical composition by American composer Thomas Masella. The piece was composed in 2015 and premiered on March 12, 2016, by the Adelphi University Saxophone Quartet in Garden City, New York. The composition consists of three movements, each with its own distinct character and mood. The first movement, "Lament," is a slow and mournful piece that features long, sustained notes and a melancholic melody. The second movement, "Dance," is a lively and rhythmic piece that features syncopated rhythms and playful melodies. The final movement, "Song," is a lyrical and expressive piece that features soaring melodies and lush harmonies. One of the defining characteristics of "Lyrics (3) for saxophone quartet" is its use of extended techniques. Throughout the piece, the saxophonists are called upon to use techniques such as multiphonics, flutter-tonguing, and slap-tonguing to create a wide range of sounds and textures. These techniques are used to great effect in the second movement, where they help to create a sense of energy and excitement. Another notable characteristic of the piece is its use of harmony. Masella employs a variety of harmonic techniques, including quartal and quintal harmony, to create a rich and complex harmonic landscape. This is particularly evident in the final movement, where the saxophonists weave together intricate harmonies to create a sense of beauty and transcendence. Overall, "Lyrics (3) for saxophone quartet" is a challenging and rewarding piece that showcases Masella's skill as a composer and his deep understanding of the saxophone quartet as an ensemble. Its combination of extended techniques, complex harmonies, and expressive melodies make it a standout work in the contemporary classical repertoire.

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