Composer

:

Iannis Xenakis

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Open Form

Compose Date

:

1973

Average_duration

:

9:14

Evryali is a solo piano piece composed by Iannis Xenakis in 1973. It premiered on October 18, 1974, at the Théâtre de la Ville in Paris, performed by the pianist Yvonne Loriod. The piece is named after a mythical creature from Greek mythology, Evryali, who was a daughter of Poseidon and a nymph. The piece is divided into four movements, each with its own distinct character and musical language. The first movement, marked "Très rapide," is a frenzied and virtuosic display of rapid-fire arpeggios and clusters, with the pianist's hands constantly crossing over each other. The second movement, marked "Lent," is a stark contrast to the first, with slow, meditative chords and delicate, sparse melodies. The third movement, marked "Très rapide," returns to the frenetic energy of the first, but with a more complex and intricate texture. The pianist is required to play with both hands inside the piano, plucking and striking the strings directly to create a percussive effect. The final movement, marked "Lent," is a haunting and atmospheric conclusion, with sustained chords and delicate, ethereal melodies. Evryali is characterized by its use of complex rhythms, dense textures, and unconventional playing techniques. Xenakis was known for his use of mathematical and scientific principles in his music, and Evryali is no exception. The piece is based on a series of mathematical algorithms and equations, which Xenakis used to create the intricate and unpredictable patterns of sound. Overall, Evryali is a challenging and demanding piece for both performer and listener, but it is also a powerful and compelling work of art. It showcases Xenakis's unique approach to composition and his ability to push the boundaries of what is possible in music.

More....