Composer

:

John Adams

Genre

:

Concerto

Compose Date

:

2018

Average_duration

:

26:21

Movement_count

:

3

Movement ....

"Must the Devil Have All the Good Tunes?" is a contemporary classical composition by American composer John Adams. The piece was composed in 2018 and premiered on March 7, 2019, by the Los Angeles Philharmonic, conducted by Gustavo Dudamel. The composition is a concerto for piano and orchestra, with a duration of approximately 25 minutes. It is divided into three movements, with the first and third movements being fast and energetic, while the second movement is slower and more introspective. The title of the piece is taken from a quote by Martin Luther, who said, "Why should the devil have all the good tunes?" Adams has stated that the title reflects his belief that classical music should not be limited to traditional forms and styles, but should be open to experimentation and innovation. The first movement of the piece is marked "Fast and Funky" and features a driving rhythm and syncopated melodies. The piano and orchestra engage in a lively dialogue, with the piano often taking on a soloistic role. The second movement, marked "Slow and Dreamlike," is more contemplative, with the piano playing long, lyrical lines over a lush orchestral backdrop. The third movement, marked "Fast and Jazzy," returns to the energetic, rhythmic style of the first movement, with the piano and orchestra engaging in a playful, virtuosic exchange. Overall, "Must the Devil Have All the Good Tunes?" is a dynamic and engaging work that showcases Adams' unique blend of classical, jazz, and popular music influences. The piece has been praised for its inventive use of rhythm and harmony, as well as its virtuosic piano writing and colorful orchestration.

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