Composer

:

Hale Smith

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Keyboard

Compose Date

:

1965

Average_duration

:

3:27

Evocation for piano is a solo piano piece composed by Hale Smith, an American composer, pianist, and educator. The piece was composed in 1966 and premiered the same year. It consists of three movements and has a total duration of approximately 12 minutes. The first movement, marked "Moderato," begins with a series of ascending and descending arpeggios that create a sense of tension and anticipation. The main theme is then introduced, a lyrical melody that is developed throughout the movement. The music is characterized by its use of syncopation and shifting meters, which give it a lively and rhythmic feel. The second movement, marked "Adagio," is a slow and introspective piece that contrasts with the energy of the first movement. It begins with a simple, melancholic melody that is repeated and developed throughout the movement. The music is characterized by its use of dissonance and chromaticism, which create a sense of tension and unease. The third movement, marked "Allegro," is a fast and lively piece that brings the work to a thrilling conclusion. It begins with a series of rapid arpeggios that lead into a playful and energetic theme. The music is characterized by its use of syncopation and virtuosic piano writing, which showcase the performer's technical abilities. Overall, Evocation for piano is a dynamic and engaging work that showcases Hale Smith's skill as a composer and pianist. Its use of shifting meters, syncopation, and virtuosic piano writing make it a challenging and rewarding piece for performers, while its lyrical melodies and use of dissonance give it a unique and expressive character.

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