Composer

:

Robert Stern

Genre

:

Chamber

Style

:

Chamber Music

Compose Date

:

1998

Average_duration

:

10:45

Hazharah is a contemporary classical composition by American composer Robert Stern. The piece was composed in 2005 and premiered on March 5, 2006, at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. Hazharah is a Hebrew word that means "awakening" or "arousal," and the piece is inspired by the Jewish mystical tradition of Kabbalah. Hazharah is a single-movement work that is approximately 12 minutes in length. The piece is scored for a chamber ensemble of 12 musicians, including flute, clarinet, bassoon, horn, trumpet, trombone, percussion, piano, violin, viola, cello, and double bass. The instrumentation is intentionally sparse, allowing each instrument to be heard clearly and distinctly. The piece begins with a slow, mysterious introduction that gradually builds in intensity. The music becomes more rhythmic and energetic, with driving percussion and syncopated rhythms. The middle section of the piece features a lyrical melody played by the violin and cello, accompanied by a gentle piano and percussion. The music gradually builds in intensity once again, with the full ensemble returning to the driving rhythms of the opening section. The piece ends with a powerful, climactic section that features a virtuosic trumpet solo. Hazharah is characterized by its use of Jewish musical elements, including modal melodies and rhythms inspired by traditional Jewish music. The piece also incorporates elements of contemporary classical music, including complex rhythms and harmonies. The result is a unique and compelling work that combines traditional and modern musical elements to create a powerful and evocative musical experience.

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