Composer

:

Joëlle Léandre

Genre

:

Electronic/Computer

Style

:

Electronic/Computer Music

Compose Date

:

1984

Average_duration

:

4:16

'Hommage à J …' is a contemporary composition by French double bassist and composer Joëlle Léandre. The piece was composed in 2014 and premiered on November 22, 2014, at the Festival Muzzix in Lille, France. The composition is divided into three movements, each paying tribute to a different musician. The first movement, titled "Hommage à John Cage," is a nod to the American composer and philosopher. The movement features sparse, minimalist textures and extended techniques on the double bass, such as bowing the strings with a metal object or plucking them with the fingers. The result is a haunting, otherworldly sound that evokes Cage's interest in silence and chance operations. The second movement, "Hommage à Jimmy Giuffre," is a tribute to the American jazz clarinetist and composer. The movement features a more melodic and rhythmic approach, with Léandre's double bass taking on a more prominent role. The movement is characterized by its playful, swinging rhythms and intricate interplay between the bass and clarinet. The final movement, "Hommage à Jeanne Lee," pays tribute to the American jazz singer and composer. The movement features Léandre's voice, which she uses to create a range of vocalizations, from guttural growls to soaring melodies. The double bass takes on a more supportive role, providing a rich harmonic foundation for Léandre's vocals. Overall, 'Hommage à J …' is a masterful composition that showcases Léandre's versatility as a composer and performer. The piece seamlessly blends elements of contemporary classical music and jazz, while paying tribute to three influential musicians who have had a profound impact on Léandre's own artistic journey.

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