Composer

:

Sofia Gubaidulina

Genre

:

Orchestral

Style

:

Open Form

Compose Date

:

1989

First Performance

:

1989

Average_duration

:

36:54

Pro et contra is a composition for cello, bayan (a type of accordion), and chamber orchestra, composed by Sofia Gubaidulina in 1968. The piece was premiered on October 17, 1968, in Moscow, with Mstislav Rostropovich on cello and Friedrich Lips on bayan, conducted by Gennady Rozhdestvensky. The composition consists of five movements, each with its own distinct character and mood. The first movement, "Largo," is a slow and mournful introduction, featuring the cello and bayan in a dialogue that gradually builds in intensity. The second movement, "Allegro," is a lively and rhythmic scherzo, with the bayan taking the lead and the cello providing a driving bass line. The third movement, "Andante," is a lyrical and expressive adagio, with the cello and bayan weaving together in a delicate and intricate duet. The fourth movement, "Allegro moderato," is a playful and whimsical dance, with the bayan and cello trading off playful melodies and rhythms. The final movement, "Largo," is a somber and introspective conclusion, with the cello and bayan returning to their mournful dialogue from the opening movement. The piece ends with a haunting and unresolved chord, leaving the listener with a sense of ambiguity and uncertainty. Pro et contra is characterized by Gubaidulina's use of unconventional instrumental techniques and her exploration of the expressive possibilities of the cello and bayan. The piece also reflects Gubaidulina's interest in the spiritual and mystical dimensions of music, with its use of religious symbolism and its emphasis on the transformative power of sound. Overall, Pro et contra is a powerful and evocative work that showcases Gubaidulina's unique voice as a composer and her ability to create deeply emotional and thought-provoking music.

More....