Composer

:

Brian Ferneyhough

Genre

:

Chamber

Style

:

Solo

Compose Date

:

1984 - 1985

Average_duration

:

10:58

Carceri d'Invenzione IIb is a composition by British composer Brian Ferneyhough. It was composed in 1986 and premiered on October 17, 1987, by the Ensemble InterContemporain in Paris. The piece is divided into six movements and has a total duration of approximately 25 minutes. The title of the composition, Carceri d'Invenzione, translates to "Prisons of Invention" in English. This title is a reference to the series of etchings by Italian artist Giovanni Battista Piranesi, which depict imaginary prisons and dungeons. Ferneyhough's composition is similarly dark and complex, with intricate textures and dissonant harmonies. The first movement, "Preludio: Lontano," begins with a slow, mournful melody played by the cello. This melody is gradually joined by other instruments, building to a climax before fading away. The second movement, "Interludio I: Lontano," is a brief interlude featuring a solo violin. The third movement, "Canzone I: Lontano," is a lyrical and expressive piece featuring the flute and clarinet. The fourth movement, "Interludio II: Lontano," is another brief interlude, this time featuring a solo viola. The fifth movement, "Canzone II: Lontano," is similar in style to the third movement, but features the oboe and bassoon. The final movement, "Postludio: Lontano," brings the composition to a close with a slow, mournful melody played by the entire ensemble. Overall, Carceri d'Invenzione IIb is a challenging and complex composition that showcases Ferneyhough's mastery of modernist techniques. The use of dissonant harmonies, intricate textures, and unconventional instrumental techniques creates a dark and unsettling atmosphere that is both captivating and challenging for the listener.

More....