Composer

:

Esa-Pekka Salonen

Genre

:

Chamber

Average_duration

:

12:28

'Knock, breathe, shine' is a contemporary classical piece composed by Esa-Pekka Salonen, a Finnish composer and conductor. The piece was composed in 2002 and premiered on March 6, 2002, by the Los Angeles Philharmonic Orchestra, with Salonen conducting. The piece is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct characteristics. The first movement, 'Knock', is characterized by its rhythmic complexity and use of percussion instruments. The movement begins with a series of sharp, staccato notes played by the percussion section, which gradually build in intensity and complexity. The movement also features a solo trumpet, which plays a haunting melody that is gradually taken up by the rest of the orchestra. The second movement, 'Breathe', is a slower, more contemplative piece that features a solo cello. The movement is characterized by its use of long, sustained notes and its emphasis on the lower registers of the orchestra. The cello solo is particularly notable for its expressive power and emotional depth. The final movement, 'Shine', is a fast-paced, energetic piece that features the full orchestra. The movement is characterized by its use of syncopated rhythms and its emphasis on the higher registers of the orchestra. The movement builds to a frenzied climax before coming to a sudden, dramatic conclusion. Overall, 'Knock, breathe, shine' is a complex and challenging piece that showcases Salonen's skill as a composer. The piece is notable for its use of percussion instruments, its emphasis on the lower registers of the orchestra, and its complex rhythms and harmonies. Despite its challenges, the piece has become a popular choice for orchestras around the world and is widely regarded as a modern classic of the contemporary classical repertoire.

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