Composer

:

Harry Partch

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Compose Date

:

1941 - 1967

Average_duration

:

41:32

Movement_count

:

4

Movement ....

Harry Partch's "The Wayward" is a composition that was premiered in 1941. It is a piece that is divided into three movements, each with its own unique characteristics. The first movement is titled "Barstow," and it is a setting of eight hobo inscriptions that Partch found on freight trains during his travels. The second movement is titled "San Francisco," and it is a setting of a poem by Kenneth Rexroth. The third movement is titled "The Letter," and it is a setting of a letter that Partch received from a friend. The first movement, "Barstow," is characterized by its use of spoken word and percussion. Partch uses a variety of percussion instruments, including maracas, wood blocks, and a brake drum, to create a rhythmic accompaniment to the spoken word. The hobo inscriptions that Partch sets to music are full of humor and irony, and they provide a glimpse into the lives of the people who rode the rails during the Great Depression. The second movement, "San Francisco," is a more lyrical and melodic piece. Partch sets Rexroth's poem to music that is reminiscent of a folk song. The instrumentation includes a guitar, a viola, and a bass marimba. The poem describes the beauty of San Francisco and the sense of freedom that the city represents. The third movement, "The Letter," is a haunting and introspective piece. Partch sets the letter to music that is sparse and atmospheric. The instrumentation includes a chromelodeon, a diamond marimba, and a bass marimba. The letter describes the writer's feelings of isolation and despair, and Partch's music captures the emotional intensity of the text. Overall, "The Wayward" is a unique and innovative composition that showcases Partch's unconventional approach to music. His use of spoken word, percussion, and unusual instruments creates a sound that is both primitive and modern. The piece is a testament to Partch's belief that music should be a reflection of the world around us, and that it should be accessible to everyone, regardless of their musical background.

More....