Composer

:

Giacomo Manzoni

Genre

:

Concerto

Style

:

Electronic Music

Compose Date

:

1976 - 1977

Average_duration

:

19:31

Masse is a composition for orchestra by Italian composer Giacomo Manzoni. It was composed in 1958 and premiered on May 15, 1959, in Milan, Italy. The piece is divided into three movements and has a total duration of approximately 25 minutes. The first movement, marked "Lento," begins with a somber and mysterious introduction in the low strings. The music gradually builds in intensity, with the addition of brass and percussion, before reaching a climax. The middle section of the movement features a lyrical melody in the strings, which is then passed to the woodwinds. The movement ends with a return to the opening material, but with a more subdued and introspective character. The second movement, marked "Allegro," is a lively and energetic scherzo. The music is characterized by rapid, syncopated rhythms and playful melodies. The middle section of the movement features a slower, more lyrical theme, which is then developed and transformed in various ways. The movement ends with a return to the opening material, but with a more frenzied and intense character. The third and final movement, marked "Adagio," is the longest and most complex of the three. It begins with a mournful and introspective theme in the strings, which is then developed and expanded upon. The middle section of the movement features a series of contrasting episodes, including a lively dance-like section and a more contemplative section featuring solo instruments. The movement ends with a return to the opening material, but with a more serene and peaceful character. Overall, Masse is a powerful and emotionally charged work that showcases Manzoni's skill as a composer. The piece is characterized by its use of contrasting textures and moods, as well as its inventive use of orchestration. It is considered to be one of Manzoni's most important works and has been performed and recorded by numerous orchestras around the world.

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