Composer

:

Thomas Adès

Genre

:

Orchestral

Style

:

Orchestral

Compose Date

:

1998 - 1999

First Performance

:

Nov 11, 1999

Average_duration

:

15:38

"America, Op. 19" is a contemporary classical composition by British composer Thomas Adès. It was composed in 1999 and premiered on October 28, 1999, at the Barbican Centre in London, England. The piece is divided into three movements and has a total duration of approximately 12 minutes. The first movement, titled "Jazz," is characterized by its syncopated rhythms and jazzy harmonies. The movement features a solo trumpet that plays a series of improvisational riffs, accompanied by the rest of the orchestra. The movement is lively and energetic, with a sense of playfulness and spontaneity. The second movement, titled "The Ancestral Mousetrap," is more introspective and contemplative. It features a solo piano that plays a series of haunting melodies, accompanied by the orchestra. The movement is characterized by its use of dissonant harmonies and unconventional chord progressions, creating a sense of tension and unease. The final movement, titled "Roadrunner," is a fast-paced and frenetic piece that evokes the image of a cartoon roadrunner racing across the desert. The movement features a series of rapid-fire rhythms and virtuosic instrumental solos, creating a sense of excitement and urgency. Overall, "America, Op. 19" is a dynamic and engaging composition that showcases Adès' skill as a composer. The piece draws on a variety of musical influences, including jazz, classical, and contemporary music, and combines them in a unique and innovative way.

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