Composer

:

Jacob Ter Veldhuis

Genre

:

Chamber

Style

:

Chamber Music

Compose Date

:

1995

Average_duration

:

12:46

'Goldrush' is a contemporary classical composition by Dutch composer Jacob Ter Veldhuis. The piece was composed in 1994 and premiered in the same year at the Gaudeamus Music Week in Amsterdam. The composition is written for solo alto saxophone and a pre-recorded soundtrack. The piece is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct character and mood. The first movement, titled 'Goldrush', is a fast-paced and energetic piece that features the saxophone playing rapid, virtuosic lines over a driving electronic beat. The second movement, 'Ballad', is a slower and more introspective piece that showcases the saxophone's lyrical capabilities. The final movement, 'Blues', is a bluesy and soulful piece that features the saxophone playing over a grooving bassline. One of the defining characteristics of 'Goldrush' is its use of pre-recorded sound. The soundtrack features a variety of electronic sounds, including samples of trains, machinery, and other industrial sounds. These sounds are used to create a sense of place and atmosphere, evoking the feeling of a bustling city or a busy factory. Another notable aspect of the composition is its use of extended techniques for the saxophone. Ter Veldhuis incorporates a variety of unconventional playing techniques, such as multiphonics and slap tonguing, to create a wide range of sounds and textures. Overall, 'Goldrush' is a dynamic and engaging composition that showcases the versatility of the saxophone and the creative possibilities of contemporary classical music.

More....