Composer

:

Igor Markevitch

Genre

:

Orchestral

Style

:

Orchestral

Compose Date

:

1931

Publication Date

:

1933

First Performance

:

Dec 15, 1931

Movement_count

:

6

Movement ....

Rébus is a composition for orchestra by Igor Markevitch, a Russian-born composer and conductor. The piece was composed in 1957 and premiered on January 23, 1958, in Paris, France, by the Orchestre National de la Radiodiffusion Française, conducted by the composer himself. The composition is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct character and mood. The first movement, marked Allegro, is a lively and energetic scherzo that features intricate rhythms and playful melodies. The second movement, marked Adagio, is a slow and contemplative piece that showcases Markevitch's skill at creating rich and expressive harmonies. The final movement, marked Allegro con fuoco, is a fiery and virtuosic finale that brings the work to a thrilling conclusion. One of the most striking characteristics of Rébus is its use of unconventional orchestration. Markevitch employs a wide variety of instruments, including saxophones, mandolins, and even a typewriter, to create a unique and colorful sound world. The composer also makes use of extended techniques, such as flutter-tonguing and glissandi, to further expand the sonic palette of the orchestra. Another notable aspect of Rébus is its use of musical puzzles, or "rébus" in French. Throughout the piece, Markevitch incorporates musical motifs and themes that are based on letters and words. For example, the opening theme of the first movement is based on the letters R-E-B-U-S, while the second movement features a theme based on the word "amour" (love). These musical puzzles add an extra layer of intrigue and playfulness to the composition, and demonstrate Markevitch's wit and ingenuity as a composer. Overall, Rébus is a masterful work that showcases Markevitch's unique voice as a composer. Its inventive orchestration, expressive harmonies, and playful musical puzzles make it a true gem of the orchestral repertoire.

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