Composer

:

Giacinto Scelsi

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Compose Date

:

1960

Average_duration

:

15:14

'Hô' is a composition for solo voice and chamber orchestra, composed by Giacinto Scelsi in 1960. The piece was premiered in Paris in 1963, with the composer conducting the Orchestre National de l'ORTF. The composition consists of three movements, each of which is characterized by a different vocal technique and timbre. The first movement, titled "Hô I," features a low, guttural vocalization that is sustained throughout the entire movement. The orchestra provides a sparse, atmospheric accompaniment, with long, sustained tones and occasional bursts of dissonant chords. The second movement, "Hô II," is characterized by a high-pitched, nasal vocalization that is reminiscent of traditional Middle Eastern singing styles. The orchestra provides a more active accompaniment in this movement, with pulsing rhythms and swirling, melodic lines. The final movement, "Hô III," features a more conventional singing style, with the vocalist singing a series of melodic phrases that are accompanied by the orchestra. The vocal line is often fragmented and disjointed, with sudden shifts in pitch and dynamics. The orchestra provides a rich, complex accompaniment, with dense harmonies and intricate rhythms. Overall, 'Hô' is a highly experimental and avant-garde composition that showcases Scelsi's interest in exploring the limits of vocal and instrumental timbre. The piece is characterized by its sparse, atmospheric textures, unconventional vocal techniques, and complex harmonic language.

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