Composer

:

Hans Werner Henze

Genre

:

Vocal

Compose Date

:

1948-1949

Average_duration

:

16:59

Apollo et Hyazinthus, improvisations is a chamber opera composed by Hans Werner Henze. The work was composed in 1960 and premiered on July 13, 1960, at the Schwetzingen Festival in Germany. The opera is based on a libretto by Henze and follows the story of Apollo and Hyacinth from Greek mythology. The opera is divided into three movements, each of which is an improvisation on a different theme. The first movement, titled "Apollo," is a meditation on the god's power and beauty. The second movement, titled "Hyacinth," is a lament for the young man who is accidentally killed by Apollo's discus. The final movement, titled "Apollo and Hyacinth," is a reconciliation between the two characters and a celebration of their love. Henze's music for Apollo et Hyazinthus, improvisations is characterized by its use of modernist techniques, including atonality and dissonance. The score also features a variety of percussion instruments, including maracas, tambourines, and wood blocks, which add to the work's rhythmic complexity. The opera's libretto is written in German and features a mix of sung and spoken dialogue. The work is scored for a small ensemble, including flute, oboe, clarinet, bassoon, horn, trumpet, percussion, and strings. Overall, Apollo et Hyazinthus, improvisations is a powerful and innovative work that showcases Henze's unique musical voice. Its exploration of themes of love, beauty, and mortality make it a timeless addition to the operatic canon.

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