Beat Furrer
Apon
Works Info
Composer:Beat FurrerGenre:OrchestralCompose Date:2009Average_duration:17:26Movement_count:2Movement ....'Apon' is a contemporary classical composition by Swiss composer Beat Furrer. The piece was composed in 2008 and premiered on October 17th of the same year at the Donaueschingen Festival in Germany. The composition is written for a chamber ensemble consisting of flute, clarinet, violin, cello, and piano. The piece is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct character and mood. The first movement, marked "sehr ruhig" (very calm), is characterized by slow, sustained notes and a sense of stillness. The second movement, marked "sehr schnell" (very fast), is a frenetic and energetic section that features rapid, virtuosic passages from all the instruments. The final movement, marked "sehr langsam" (very slow), returns to the calm and contemplative mood of the first movement, with long, sustained notes and a sense of peacefulness. One of the defining characteristics of 'Apon' is its use of extended techniques, particularly in the wind and string instruments. The flute and clarinet, for example, use techniques such as multiphonics (producing multiple notes simultaneously) and microtonal inflections (playing notes that are not part of the standard Western tuning system). The string instruments also use unconventional techniques, such as playing behind the bridge or using a bowing technique called col legno (striking the strings with the wood of the bow). Another notable aspect of 'Apon' is its use of silence and space. Furrer often allows long pauses between notes or sections, creating a sense of anticipation and tension. This use of silence is particularly effective in the first and third movements, where the slow, sustained notes are punctuated by moments of stillness. Overall, 'Apon' is a challenging and complex composition that showcases Furrer's innovative approach to contemporary classical music. Its use of extended techniques, unconventional harmonies, and careful attention to silence and space make it a unique and compelling work.More....
