Composer

:

Douglas Knehans

Genre

:

Choral

Average_duration

:

10:22

Movement_count

:

2

Movement ....

"Two Looks at Silence" is a contemporary classical composition by American composer Douglas Knehans. The piece was composed in 2015 and premiered on March 6, 2016, by the Cincinnati Camerata at the Knox Presbyterian Church in Cincinnati, Ohio. The composition consists of two movements, each exploring the theme of silence in different ways. The first movement, titled "Silentium," is a slow and contemplative piece that features a solo cello accompanied by a string orchestra. The cello's mournful melody is punctuated by moments of silence, creating a sense of stillness and introspection. The second movement, titled "Silent Songs," is a more dynamic and rhythmic piece that features a choir accompanied by a chamber orchestra. The choir sings a series of fragmented phrases, interrupted by moments of silence, creating a sense of tension and release. The orchestra provides a driving rhythm that propels the piece forward, building to a powerful climax before fading into silence. Throughout the composition, Knehans explores the idea of silence as both a presence and an absence. The moments of silence in the music are not simply pauses, but rather an integral part of the composition, creating a sense of space and allowing the listener to reflect on the music and their own thoughts and emotions. Overall, "Two Looks at Silence" is a haunting and evocative composition that showcases Knehans' skill as a composer and his ability to create powerful emotional experiences through music.

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