Composer

:

Henri Dutilleux

Genre

:

Orchestral

Style

:

Piece

Compose Date

:

1959 - 1964

Publication Date

:

1967

First Performance

:

Jan 14, 1965

Average_duration

:

16:37

Movement_count

:

5

Movement ....

Henri Dutilleux's 'Métaboles' is a composition for orchestra that was completed in 1964. It was premiered on December 17, 1965, by the Orchestre National de France, conducted by Charles Munch. The piece is divided into five movements, each of which explores different aspects of musical transformation. The first movement, 'Incantatoire,' begins with a series of repeated notes that gradually build in intensity. The music then shifts to a more lyrical section, with the strings playing a soaring melody over a pulsing rhythm in the brass and percussion. The movement ends with a return to the opening material, but now transformed and expanded. The second movement, 'Linéaire,' is characterized by its long, flowing lines and intricate counterpoint. The music builds to a climax before subsiding into a quiet, introspective section. The movement ends with a return to the opening material, but now transformed and fragmented. The third movement, 'Obsessionnel,' is built around a driving, rhythmic ostinato in the strings. The music becomes increasingly frenzied, with the brass and percussion adding to the intensity. The movement ends with a sudden, explosive chord. The fourth movement, 'Torpeur,' is a slow, dreamlike section that features lush harmonies and delicate textures. The music gradually builds in intensity before subsiding into a quiet, introspective coda. The final movement, 'Flamboyant,' is a virtuosic tour-de-force that showcases the orchestra's technical prowess. The music is characterized by its rapid, shifting rhythms and colorful orchestration. The movement ends with a triumphant coda that brings the piece to a thrilling conclusion. Overall, 'Métaboles' is a masterful exploration of musical transformation and evolution. Dutilleux's use of intricate counterpoint, lush harmonies, and colorful orchestration creates a rich and complex sonic landscape that rewards repeated listening. The piece is a testament to Dutilleux's skill as a composer and his ability to push the boundaries of orchestral music.

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