Composer

:

Glenn Branca

Genre

:

Symphony

Style

:

Symphony

Average_duration

:

44:10

Glenn Branca's Symphony No. 5 Describing Planes of an Expanding Hypersphere is a monumental work of avant-garde music that premiered in 1983. The symphony is divided into four movements, each of which explores the sonic possibilities of a different ensemble of instruments. The first movement, titled "Pulse," features a massive wall of sound created by an orchestra of electric guitars, basses, and drums. The guitars are tuned to a variety of open and alternate tunings, creating a dense and dissonant harmonic landscape. The drums provide a driving, propulsive rhythm that underpins the entire movement. The second movement, "Glide," is scored for a smaller ensemble of guitars, basses, and keyboards. The guitars are played with e-bows, creating sustained, ethereal tones that float above the pulsing bass and keyboard lines. The movement has a dreamlike quality, with the instruments blending together to create a shimmering, otherworldly sound. The third movement, "Harmonics," is scored for a chamber orchestra of strings and woodwinds. The instruments are played in unconventional ways, with the strings producing harmonics and the woodwinds playing multiphonics. The result is a haunting, otherworldly sound that evokes the mysteries of the cosmos. The final movement, "Fractal," brings all of the previous elements together in a grand finale. The movement is scored for a full orchestra, including brass and percussion. The guitars and basses return, playing complex, interlocking patterns that build to a frenzied climax. The movement ends with a massive wall of sound that gradually fades away, leaving the listener with a sense of awe and wonder. Overall, Symphony No. 5 Describing Planes of an Expanding Hypersphere is a groundbreaking work of experimental music that pushes the boundaries of what is possible with electric guitars and other instruments. It is a testament to Glenn Branca's visionary approach to composition and his willingness to explore new sonic territories.

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