Composer

:

Iannis Xenakis

Genre

:

Chamber

Style

:

Open Form

Compose Date

:

1983

Average_duration

:

14:49

Tetras is a composition for string quartet by the Greek-French composer Iannis Xenakis. It was composed in 1983 and premiered on October 14, 1983, in Paris, France. The piece is divided into four movements, each with its own unique characteristics. The first movement, marked "Molto agitato," is characterized by its frenzied energy and complex rhythms. The quartet is often divided into individual voices, each playing its own intricate pattern. The movement is marked by sudden shifts in dynamics and tempo, creating a sense of constant motion and tension. The second movement, marked "Lento," is a stark contrast to the first. It is slow and contemplative, with long, sustained notes and a sense of spaciousness. The quartet plays together more often in this movement, creating a sense of unity and harmony. The third movement, marked "Allegro," returns to the frenzied energy of the first. It is marked by rapid, staccato notes and sudden shifts in dynamics. The quartet is once again divided into individual voices, each playing its own complex pattern. The final movement, marked "Presto," is the most intense of the four. It is characterized by its relentless energy and driving rhythms. The quartet plays together more often in this movement, creating a sense of unity and power. The movement builds to a frenzied climax before abruptly ending. Overall, Tetras is a challenging and complex piece of music. It requires a high level of technical skill and precision from the performers. The piece is marked by its use of complex rhythms and sudden shifts in dynamics, creating a sense of constant motion and tension. Despite its difficulty, Tetras is considered a masterpiece of contemporary classical music and has been performed by many of the world's leading string quartets.

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