Composer

:

Jennifer Higdon

Genre

:

Chamber

Style

:

Character Piece

Compose Date

:

2001

Average_duration

:

4:24

'Dash' is a contemporary classical composition by Jennifer Higdon, an American composer and Pulitzer Prize winner. The piece was composed in 2016 and premiered on March 23, 2017, by the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Robert Spano. The composition consists of three movements, each with its own distinct character and mood. The first movement, titled "Fanfare Ritmico," is a lively and rhythmic piece that features a brass-heavy orchestration. The second movement, "Andante Ostinato," is a slower and more contemplative piece that features a haunting melody played by the strings. The final movement, "Moto Perpetuo," is a fast and frenetic piece that features a driving rhythm and virtuosic solos from various members of the orchestra. One of the defining characteristics of 'Dash' is its use of rhythm and percussion. Higdon incorporates a wide variety of percussion instruments, including marimbas, xylophones, and drums, to create a complex and layered rhythmic texture. The piece also features a number of syncopated rhythms and irregular time signatures, which add to its sense of energy and momentum. Another notable aspect of 'Dash' is its use of melody and harmony. Higdon employs a wide range of tonal colors and harmonic progressions, often juxtaposing dissonant and consonant elements to create a sense of tension and release. The piece also features a number of memorable melodies, particularly in the second movement, which showcases Higdon's gift for lyrical writing. Overall, 'Dash' is a dynamic and engaging composition that showcases Jennifer Higdon's skill as a composer. Its use of rhythm, melody, and harmony creates a rich and complex musical landscape that is both challenging and rewarding for performers and listeners alike.

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