Composer

:

Milton Babbitt

Genre

:

Chamber

Style

:

Chamber Music

Compose Date

:

1957

Average_duration

:

8:04

All Set is a composition by Milton Babbitt, an American composer, music theorist, and teacher. It was composed in 1957 and premiered on May 23, 1958, by the Columbia Chamber Ensemble, conducted by Gunther Schuller. The piece is written for twelve instruments, including flute, clarinet, bassoon, horn, trumpet, trombone, percussion, piano, violin, viola, cello, and double bass. All Set is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct character. The first movement is marked "Allegro," and it is characterized by its frenetic energy and complex rhythms. The second movement, marked "Adagio," is more introspective and contemplative, with long, sustained lines and a sense of melancholy. The final movement, marked "Allegro con brio," is a return to the energy of the first movement, with intricate counterpoint and a sense of playfulness. One of the most notable characteristics of All Set is its use of twelve-tone serialism, a compositional technique that Babbitt was known for championing. In this technique, all twelve notes of the chromatic scale are used in a specific order, creating a sense of unity and coherence throughout the piece. However, Babbitt also incorporates elements of jazz and popular music into the composition, creating a unique blend of styles. Another notable characteristic of All Set is its use of "controlled improvisation." In this technique, the performers are given specific guidelines for improvisation, such as a set of pitches or rhythms to use, but are allowed to interpret them in their own way. This creates a sense of spontaneity and unpredictability in the performance, while still maintaining a sense of structure and coherence. Overall, All Set is a complex and challenging composition that showcases Babbitt's mastery of serialism and his willingness to experiment with different styles and techniques. Its premiere was met with both praise and controversy, with some critics hailing it as a groundbreaking work of art and others dismissing it as overly intellectual and inaccessible. However, its influence on contemporary music cannot be denied, and it remains a significant work in the canon of 20th-century music.

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