Composer

:

Augusta Read Thomas

Genre

:

Chamber

Style

:

Chamber Music

Average_duration

:

3:45

Caprice is a contemporary classical composition by Augusta Read Thomas, an American composer born in 1964. The piece was composed in 2013 and premiered on March 7, 2014, by the Boston Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Andris Nelsons. Caprice is a single-movement work that lasts approximately 10 minutes. The piece is characterized by its energetic and virtuosic writing for the orchestra, featuring a wide range of instrumental colors and textures. The work is also marked by its use of complex rhythms and harmonies, which create a sense of tension and excitement throughout. The piece begins with a lively and rhythmic introduction, featuring a driving ostinato in the strings and percussion. This leads into a series of contrasting sections, each featuring a different instrumental group or soloist. These sections range from lyrical and expressive to fast and frenetic, showcasing the full range of the orchestra's capabilities. One of the most striking features of Caprice is its use of extended techniques, such as glissandi, harmonics, and percussive effects. These techniques are used to create a wide range of timbres and textures, adding to the piece's overall sense of excitement and unpredictability. Overall, Caprice is a dynamic and engaging work that showcases Augusta Read Thomas's skill as a composer and her ability to create music that is both technically challenging and emotionally compelling. Its premiere by the Boston Symphony Orchestra was met with critical acclaim, cementing Thomas's reputation as one of the leading composers of her generation.

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