Composer

:

Morton Feldman

Genre

:

Orchestral

Style

:

Orchestral

Compose Date

:

1961

Average_duration

:

9:59

Morton Feldman's "Out of Last Pieces" is a composition for solo piano that was completed in 1960. The piece was premiered on May 16, 1961, by pianist David Tudor at the Merce Cunningham Dance Company's studio in New York City. "Out of Last Pieces" is divided into four movements, each of which is characterized by a slow and meditative pace. The first movement is marked by a series of soft, sustained chords that are played in a slow and deliberate manner. The second movement features a series of delicate, high-pitched notes that are played in a sparse and minimalist style. The third movement is marked by a series of low, rumbling chords that gradually build in intensity. The final movement returns to the slow and meditative pace of the first movement, with a series of soft, sustained chords that gradually fade away. One of the defining characteristics of "Out of Last Pieces" is its use of silence and space. Feldman was known for his interest in exploring the relationship between sound and silence, and this piece is a prime example of his approach. The sparse and minimalist style of the second movement, in particular, highlights the importance of silence in Feldman's work. Another characteristic of "Out of Last Pieces" is its use of repetition. The sustained chords that are featured throughout the piece are often repeated, creating a sense of hypnotic and meditative calm. This repetition also serves to highlight the subtle variations in tone and texture that occur over the course of the piece. Overall, "Out of Last Pieces" is a haunting and introspective work that showcases Feldman's unique approach to composition. Its use of silence, repetition, and slow, meditative pacing make it a standout piece in the minimalist canon.

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