Composer

:

Rudolf Escher

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Suite

Compose Date

:

1945

Average_duration

:

21:58

Movement_count

:

4

Movement ....

Arcana is a composition for orchestra by Dutch composer Rudolf Escher. It was composed in 1958 and premiered on November 6, 1958, by the Concertgebouw Orchestra conducted by Eduard van Beinum. The piece is divided into three movements and has a total duration of approximately 20 minutes. The first movement, titled "The Magician," is characterized by its mysterious and mystical atmosphere. It begins with a slow and ominous introduction, featuring low strings and brass. The music gradually builds in intensity, with the addition of percussion and woodwinds. The middle section of the movement features a solo violin, which plays a haunting melody over a bed of shimmering strings. The movement ends with a return to the opening material, bringing the music full circle. The second movement, titled "The High Priestess," is more introspective and contemplative than the first. It begins with a solo oboe, playing a plaintive melody over a soft bed of strings. The music gradually builds in intensity, with the addition of other woodwinds and brass. The middle section of the movement features a solo cello, which plays a lyrical and expressive melody. The movement ends with a return to the opening material, but with a sense of resolution and calm. The third and final movement, titled "The World," is the most energetic and lively of the three. It begins with a fast and rhythmic section, featuring the full orchestra. The music is characterized by its driving rhythms and colorful orchestration. The middle section of the movement features a solo trumpet, which plays a fanfare-like melody over a bed of percussion. The movement ends with a return to the opening material, but with even more energy and excitement. Overall, Arcana is a highly evocative and atmospheric work, showcasing Escher's skillful orchestration and ability to create vivid musical images. The piece is inspired by the tarot cards, and each movement represents a different card and its associated symbolism. Despite its mystical and esoteric subject matter, the music is highly accessible and engaging, making it a popular choice for orchestral concerts and recordings.

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