Composer

:

Billy Strayhorn

Genre

:

Chamber

Style

:

Chamber Music

Average_duration

:

3:44

Billy Strayhorn's "Blood Count" is a hauntingly beautiful jazz composition that was written in 1967, just a few months before his untimely death. The piece was premiered by the Duke Ellington Orchestra in November of that year, and has since become one of Strayhorn's most beloved works. "Blood Count" is a slow, melancholy ballad that is characterized by its lush harmonies and poignant melody. The piece is written in a minor key, which gives it a mournful quality that is perfectly suited to its subject matter. The title of the piece is a reference to Strayhorn's battle with cancer, which he was diagnosed with in 1964. The "blood count" refers to the number of white blood cells in his body, which were being destroyed by the disease. The piece is divided into three movements, each of which is marked by a change in tempo and mood. The first movement is slow and mournful, with a simple melody that is played by the saxophone. The second movement is more upbeat, with a swinging rhythm and a more complex melody that is played by the trumpet. The third movement returns to the slow, mournful mood of the first, with a haunting melody that is played by the saxophone. One of the most striking characteristics of "Blood Count" is its use of dissonance. Strayhorn was known for his innovative use of harmony, and this piece is no exception. The chords that he uses are often unexpected and dissonant, which gives the piece a sense of tension and unease. However, this tension is always resolved in a way that is both satisfying and emotionally powerful. Overall, "Blood Count" is a masterpiece of jazz composition that showcases Strayhorn's incredible talent as a composer. Its haunting melody and innovative use of harmony have made it a beloved piece among jazz musicians and fans alike, and it remains a testament to Strayhorn's enduring legacy in the world of music.

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