Composer

:

Morton Feldman

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Open Form

Compose Date

:

1953

Average_duration

:

6:49

Morton Feldman's 'Extensions 4' is a composition for solo piano that was composed in 1953. The piece premiered on May 16, 1953, at the Contemporary Music Festival in Washington D.C. The composition consists of three movements, each of which is characterized by its use of extended techniques and unconventional notation. The first movement of 'Extensions 4' is marked "very slow and sustained." It begins with a series of soft, sustained chords that gradually increase in volume and intensity. The pianist is instructed to use the sustain pedal throughout the movement, creating a blurred, dreamlike effect. The notation is unconventional, with notes and rests placed in irregular patterns on the page. The second movement is marked "fast and rhythmic." It is a stark contrast to the first movement, with a driving, syncopated rhythm that propels the music forward. The pianist is instructed to use the damper pedal throughout the movement, creating a sharp, percussive sound. The notation is again unconventional, with notes and rests placed in irregular patterns on the page. The third and final movement is marked "slow and sustained." It returns to the dreamlike atmosphere of the first movement, with soft, sustained chords that gradually fade away. The pianist is instructed to use the sustain pedal throughout the movement, creating a sense of floating or drifting. The notation is once again unconventional, with notes and rests placed in irregular patterns on the page. Overall, 'Extensions 4' is a challenging and unconventional composition that showcases Feldman's interest in exploring the limits of traditional notation and performance techniques. The use of extended techniques and unconventional notation creates a unique sound world that is both haunting and beautiful.

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