Composer

:

Susann McDonald / Linda Wood

Genre

:

Chamber

Style

:

Chamber Music

Compose Date

:

1985

Average_duration

:

5:22

Movement_count

:

3

Movement ....

Haiku is a harp duet composed by Susann McDonald and Linda Wood. The piece was premiered in 1983 and has since become a popular choice for harpists around the world. The composition is divided into three movements, each of which is inspired by the traditional Japanese poetic form of haiku. The first movement, titled "Autumn Leaves," is characterized by its gentle, flowing melody and delicate arpeggios. The piece evokes the image of leaves falling from trees in the autumn, with the harpists' fingers mimicking the rustling of leaves in the wind. The movement is marked by a sense of tranquility and peacefulness, with the harpists' playing creating a serene and meditative atmosphere. The second movement, "Winter Snow," is more dramatic and intense than the first. The piece begins with a series of sharp, staccato notes that evoke the sound of snowflakes falling on the ground. The harpists' playing becomes more forceful and energetic as the movement progresses, with the music building to a powerful climax before subsiding into a quiet, reflective coda. The final movement, "Spring Blossoms," is the most upbeat and lively of the three. The piece is characterized by its playful, dance-like melody and intricate, fast-paced arpeggios. The harpists' playing is full of energy and vitality, evoking the image of flowers blooming and birds singing in the springtime. The movement ends with a joyful flourish, bringing the piece to a triumphant close. Overall, Haiku is a beautiful and evocative composition that showcases the versatility and expressiveness of the harp. The piece's three movements each offer a unique and vivid musical portrait of the changing seasons, making it a popular choice for harpists looking to showcase their technical skill and artistic sensibility.

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