Composer

:

Michael Daugherty

Genre

:

Orchestral

Style

:

Orchestral

Average_duration

:

9:20

Bizarro for symphonic winds & percussion is a composition by Michael Daugherty, an American composer known for his unique and eclectic style. The piece was composed in 1993 and premiered on March 26, 1994, by the University of Michigan Symphony Band, conducted by H. Robert Reynolds. Bizarro is a three-movement work that explores the concept of duality and the idea of the "bizarro" world, where everything is the opposite of what it should be. The first movement, titled "Fanfare for the Uncommon Man," is a tribute to Aaron Copland's "Fanfare for the Common Man." However, Daugherty's version is a twisted and distorted version of the original, with dissonant harmonies and unexpected rhythmic shifts. The second movement, "Dance of the Alter Ego," is a lively and energetic dance that features a variety of percussion instruments, including marimba, vibraphone, and snare drum. The movement is characterized by its syncopated rhythms and playful melodies, which are often interrupted by sudden bursts of dissonance. The final movement, "Epilogue: The Lone and Level Sands," is a somber and reflective piece that features a solo trumpet. The movement is inspired by the poem "Ozymandias" by Percy Bysshe Shelley, which describes the ruins of a once-great civilization. The trumpet represents the voice of the fallen king, who laments the passing of his empire. Overall, Bizarro for symphonic winds & percussion is a unique and innovative work that showcases Daugherty's ability to blend different musical styles and genres. The piece is characterized by its use of dissonance, unexpected rhythmic shifts, and playful melodies, which create a sense of tension and unease. Despite its unconventional approach, Bizarro is a highly engaging and entertaining work that has become a staple of the wind band repertoire.

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