Composer

:

John Corigliano

Genre

:

Chamber

Style

:

Chamber Music

Compose Date

:

1999

Average_duration

:

9:46

Movement_count

:

6

Movement ....

The Red Violin Caprices is a composition for solo violin composed by John Corigliano in 1997. It was written as a companion piece to the film The Red Violin, which tells the story of a legendary violin and its journey through history. The piece was premiered by Joshua Bell, who also performed the violin solos in the film. The Red Violin Caprices consists of six movements, each of which is based on a different character or episode from the film. The first movement, "Anna's Theme," is a lyrical and expressive piece that reflects the character of Anna, a young violin prodigy who is the first owner of the Red Violin. The second movement, "Pope's Betrayal," is a fast and furious piece that reflects the treachery of a corrupt cardinal who tries to steal the violin from Anna. The third movement, "Coitus Musicalis," is a playful and sensual piece that reflects the passionate relationship between the violin's next owner, a courtesan named Victoria, and her lover. The fourth movement, "The Auction," is a tense and dramatic piece that reflects the high-stakes auction where the violin is sold to a wealthy collector. The fifth movement, "Shanghai," is a haunting and atmospheric piece that reflects the violin's journey to China, where it is hidden during the Cultural Revolution. The final movement, "Moto Perpetuo," is a virtuosic and energetic piece that reflects the violin's final journey to Canada, where it is discovered and restored. Overall, The Red Violin Caprices is a challenging and rewarding piece for solo violinists. It showcases Corigliano's skill as a composer and his ability to capture the emotional and dramatic elements of the film in music. The piece has become a popular addition to the solo violin repertoire and is frequently performed in concert halls around the world.

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