Composer

:

Michael Daugherty

Genre

:

Concerto

Style

:

Concerto

Compose Date

:

1996

Average_duration

:

16:11

"Le Tombeau de Liberace" is a composition for solo piano and orchestra by American composer Michael Daugherty. The piece was composed in 2003 and premiered on February 12, 2004, by pianist Terrence Wilson and the Detroit Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Neeme Järvi. The title of the piece is a reference to the French Baroque tradition of the "tombeau," a musical tribute to a deceased composer or musician. In this case, Daugherty pays homage to the flamboyant pianist and entertainer Liberace, who died in 1987. The piece is divided into three movements, each of which is named after a different aspect of Liberace's persona. The first movement, "Mr. Showmanship," is a lively and virtuosic tribute to Liberace's flamboyant stage presence and showmanship. The second movement, "The Glittering Road," is a more introspective and melancholy reflection on Liberace's life and career, with a hauntingly beautiful piano melody accompanied by shimmering strings. The final movement, "Boogie Woogie," is a rollicking and energetic tribute to Liberace's love of boogie-woogie piano music, with the soloist and orchestra trading off playful and virtuosic riffs. Throughout the piece, Daugherty incorporates elements of Liberace's music and style, including flashy piano runs, lush string harmonies, and playful nods to popular songs like "Chopsticks" and "The Beer Barrel Polka." The result is a colorful and entertaining tribute to one of the most iconic figures in American popular music.

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