Composer

:

John Cage

Genre

:

Chamber

Style

:

Chamber Music

Compose Date

:

1991

Average_duration

:

9:02

"Three2" is a composition by the American composer John Cage. It was composed in 1991 and premiered on October 26 of the same year at the Merkin Concert Hall in New York City. The piece is part of Cage's series of works for small ensembles, which he called "Number Pieces." "Three2" is scored for three performers playing unspecified instruments. The performers are instructed to play single tones or chords, with the duration and dynamics of each sound left up to their discretion. The piece is divided into three movements, each with its own tempo and character. The first movement is marked "Slowly, with sustained tones." The performers are instructed to play long, sustained tones with a soft dynamic. The tempo is left up to the performers, but it should be slow and deliberate. The result is a meditative, almost hypnotic sound. The second movement is marked "Fast, with short tones." Here, the performers are instructed to play short, staccato notes with a fast tempo and a loud dynamic. The effect is frenetic and chaotic, with the performers creating a flurry of sound. The third movement is marked "Moderately, with sustained tones." This movement is similar to the first, but with a slightly faster tempo and a more varied dynamic. The performers are instructed to play sustained tones with occasional interruptions, creating a sense of tension and release. Overall, "Three2" is a prime example of Cage's interest in indeterminacy and chance operations. By leaving the choice of instruments, duration, and dynamics up to the performers, he creates a piece that is unique every time it is performed. The result is a work that is both unpredictable and deeply meditative, reflecting Cage's belief in the transformative power of sound.

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