Composer

:

William Mathias

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Keyboard

Compose Date

:

1982

Average_duration

:

11:46

Antiphonies for organ, Op. 88/2 is a composition by Welsh composer William Mathias. It was composed in 1987 and premiered on May 22, 1988, at St. David's Hall in Cardiff, Wales. The piece consists of three movements and has a total duration of approximately 12 minutes. The first movement, marked "Allegro," is characterized by its lively and rhythmic nature. The organist is required to play with great energy and precision, navigating through complex rhythms and intricate melodic lines. The movement is structured around a recurring theme that is introduced at the beginning and developed throughout. The second movement, marked "Lento," is a stark contrast to the first. It is a slow and contemplative piece that showcases the organ's ability to produce rich and expressive harmonies. The movement is built around a series of chords that are gradually introduced and then repeated in various combinations. The result is a hauntingly beautiful and meditative piece. The final movement, marked "Allegro con fuoco," is a return to the energetic and rhythmic style of the first. It is a virtuosic display of the organist's technical abilities, with fast and intricate passages that require great dexterity and precision. The movement builds to a thrilling climax before coming to a sudden and dramatic close. Overall, Antiphonies for organ, Op. 88/2 is a challenging and rewarding piece for both performer and listener. It showcases the versatility and power of the organ as an instrument, while also demonstrating Mathias's skill as a composer.

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