Composer

:

Henry Cowell

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Keyboard

Compose Date

:

1928

Publication Date

:

Oct 1947

Average_duration

:

1:37

Movement_count

:

2

Movement ....

'Woofs (2), HC 451' is a composition by the American composer Henry Cowell. It was composed in 1957 and premiered on May 10, 1958, at the San Francisco Museum of Art. The piece consists of two movements, each featuring a different type of woofing sound. The first movement, titled "Woof I," features a deep, guttural woofing sound produced by blowing air through a large metal tube. The sound is reminiscent of a dog's bark, hence the title of the piece. Cowell uses this sound to create a rhythmic pattern that is repeated throughout the movement. The pattern is gradually varied and developed, creating a sense of tension and release. The second movement, titled "Woof II," features a higher-pitched woofing sound produced by blowing air through a smaller metal tube. This sound is more like a yelp or a howl than a bark. Cowell uses this sound to create a more melodic and expressive movement than the first. The woofing sound is combined with other percussive sounds, such as clapping and tapping, to create a complex and layered texture. Overall, 'Woofs (2), HC 451' is a unique and experimental composition that showcases Cowell's interest in exploring new sounds and techniques. The use of woofing sounds as the primary material for the piece is unusual and unexpected, but Cowell manages to create a compelling and engaging work. The rhythmic and melodic patterns he creates with the woofing sounds are both intricate and accessible, making the piece a fascinating listen for both casual listeners and music scholars alike.

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