Composer

:

György Ligeti

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Etude

Compose Date

:

1995

Average_duration

:

3:49

György Ligeti's "Etudes, Book 3 No. 15 White on white" is a contemporary classical composition that premiered in 1995. The piece is part of Ligeti's third book of etudes, which he composed between 1985 and 2001. "White on white" is a solo piano piece that consists of three movements. The first movement is marked "Mesto, rigido e cerimoniale" (sad, rigid, and ceremonial) and is characterized by a slow, mournful melody that is repeated throughout the movement. The second movement, marked "Molto vivace, capriccioso" (very lively, capricious), is a fast and playful section that features rapid arpeggios and staccato notes. The final movement, marked "Lento, placido, sempre molto delicato" (slow, peaceful, always very delicate), returns to the mournful melody of the first movement, but with a more delicate and serene tone. The title "White on white" refers to the minimalist nature of the piece. Ligeti uses a limited range of notes and dynamics, creating a sparse and ethereal sound. The piece is also characterized by Ligeti's use of microtonality, which involves using intervals smaller than the traditional half-step. This creates a unique and otherworldly sound that is characteristic of Ligeti's style. Overall, "Etudes, Book 3 No. 15 White on white" is a haunting and beautiful piece that showcases Ligeti's mastery of contemporary classical composition. Its minimalist nature and use of microtonality make it a unique and memorable addition to the repertoire of modern piano music.

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