Composer

:

Philip Glass

Genre

:

Chamber

Style

:

Open Form

Compose Date

:

1968

Average_duration

:

7:29

'1+1' is a composition for two pianos by the American composer Philip Glass. It was composed in 1969 and premiered the same year at the Paula Cooper Gallery in New York City. The piece consists of three movements and has a total duration of approximately 15 minutes. The first movement of '1+1' is marked by a repetitive, minimalist style that is characteristic of Glass's work. The two pianos play a series of arpeggios and chords that gradually build in intensity and complexity. The second movement is slower and more contemplative, with a haunting melody that is passed back and forth between the two pianos. The final movement returns to the energetic, repetitive style of the first movement, with the two pianos playing in unison to create a powerful, driving rhythm. One of the most notable characteristics of '1+1' is its use of repetition and variation. Glass's minimalist style is based on the idea of taking a simple musical idea and repeating it with subtle variations over time. This creates a hypnotic effect that draws the listener into the music and allows them to experience it on a deeper level. Another characteristic of '1+1' is its use of harmony. Glass's music often features unconventional harmonies that are based on the repetition of simple chord progressions. In '1+1', the two pianos play off each other to create a complex web of harmonies that are both dissonant and beautiful. Overall, '1+1' is a powerful and evocative piece of music that showcases Glass's unique style and approach to composition. Its use of repetition, variation, and unconventional harmonies make it a landmark work in the minimalist tradition, and its premiere in 1969 helped to establish Glass as one of the most important composers of his generation.

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