Composer

:

Philip Lasser

Genre

:

Chamber

Style

:

Chamber Music

Average_duration

:

6:29

'Vocalise' is a contemporary classical composition by American composer Philip Lasser. It was composed in 2008 and premiered on March 22, 2009, at the Weill Recital Hall in New York City. The piece is a single movement work for solo piano and has a duration of approximately 10 minutes. The piece is characterized by its lyrical and expressive melodies, which are reminiscent of the human voice. The title 'Vocalise' is derived from the French word 'vocalise,' which means a vocal exercise or a song without words. The piece is a musical representation of this concept, as it features a series of melodic lines that are sung by the piano. The piece is divided into three main sections, each of which explores a different aspect of the vocal quality of the piano. The first section features a series of arpeggios and broken chords that create a sense of fluidity and motion. The second section is more introspective and features a series of sustained chords and melodic lines that are played with a delicate touch. The final section is more energetic and features a series of rapid arpeggios and runs that build to a climactic finish. Throughout the piece, Lasser employs a variety of techniques to create a sense of vocal expression. These include the use of rubato, which allows the performer to stretch and compress the tempo to create a sense of emotional intensity. Lasser also employs a variety of dynamic markings, which allow the performer to create a sense of ebb and flow in the music. Overall, 'Vocalise' is a beautiful and expressive work that showcases Lasser's skill as a composer. Its lyrical melodies and expressive qualities make it a popular choice for pianists looking to showcase their musicality and technical skill.

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