Composer

:

Morton Feldman

Genre

:

Chamber

Style

:

Graphic Score

Compose Date

:

1964

Average_duration

:

6:45

Morton Feldman's "The King of Denmark" is a solo percussion piece composed in 1964. The piece premiered on May 16, 1965, at the University of Illinois, performed by percussionist Jan Williams. The piece is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct character. The first movement is marked "quietly, with a singing quality" and features delicate, sparse sounds from the percussion instruments. The second movement is marked "very soft, very fast" and is a flurry of rapid, intricate rhythms. The final movement is marked "slowly, with a singing quality" and returns to the sparse, delicate sounds of the first movement. One of the defining characteristics of "The King of Denmark" is its use of indeterminate notation. Rather than traditional musical notation, Feldman used a system of graphic symbols and verbal instructions to guide the performer. This allows for a great deal of interpretation and variation in performance, making each rendition of the piece unique. Another notable aspect of the piece is its use of silence. Feldman was known for his interest in silence and the spaces between sounds, and "The King of Denmark" features several extended periods of silence. This creates a sense of tension and anticipation, as the listener waits for the next sound to emerge. Overall, "The King of Denmark" is a challenging and complex piece that showcases Feldman's innovative approach to composition. Its use of indeterminate notation and emphasis on silence make it a unique and compelling work in the percussion repertoire.

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