Composer

:

Edgard Varèse

Genre

:

Chamber

Style

:

Solo

Compose Date

:

1936

Average_duration

:

4:07

Density 21.5 is a solo flute composition composed by Edgard Varèse in 1936. It was written for Georges Barrère, a French flutist who was a member of the New York Philharmonic Orchestra. The title of the piece refers to the density of platinum, which is 21.5 grams per cubic centimeter, and the fact that the flute used by Barrère was made of platinum. The piece is divided into three movements, with the first and third movements being fast and the second movement being slow. The first movement is characterized by its rapid and virtuosic passages, with the flute playing a series of fast runs and trills. The second movement is more lyrical and expressive, with the flute playing long, sustained notes and exploring the full range of the instrument. The third movement returns to the fast and frenetic pace of the first movement, with the flute playing a series of complex rhythms and intricate patterns. One of the defining characteristics of Density 21.5 is its use of extended techniques, such as flutter-tonguing, harmonics, and multiphonics. These techniques allow the flute to produce a wide range of sounds and textures, creating a sense of density and complexity in the music. The piece also makes use of unconventional notation, with Varèse using symbols and diagrams to indicate specific techniques and effects. Density 21.5 premiered on March 2, 1936, at the New York Museum of Modern Art, with Georges Barrère performing the solo flute part. The piece was well-received by audiences and critics alike, and it has since become one of the most iconic works in the flute repertoire. Its innovative use of extended techniques and unconventional notation has influenced generations of composers and performers, and it remains a testament to Varèse's pioneering spirit and experimental approach to music.

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