Composer

:

Franck Bedrossian

Genre

:

Chamber

Compose Date

:

2010

Average_duration

:

10:16

Edges is a contemporary classical composition by French-Armenian composer Franck Bedrossian. The piece was composed in 2004 and premiered on February 4, 2005, at the Théâtre de la Ville in Paris, France. Edges is a single-movement work that is approximately 20 minutes in length. The piece is scored for a large ensemble consisting of 16 musicians, including winds, brass, percussion, and strings. The instrumentation is unconventional, with the addition of instruments such as the contrabass clarinet and bass saxophone. The piece is characterized by its use of complex rhythms and intricate textures. Bedrossian employs a variety of extended techniques, such as multiphonics and microtonal tuning, to create a unique sound world. The piece is also notable for its use of silence and space, with moments of stillness punctuating the dense and frenetic sections. Edges is divided into several distinct sections, each with its own character and mood. The opening section is marked by a series of sharp, staccato gestures that gradually build in intensity. This gives way to a more lyrical section, featuring long, sustained lines in the strings and winds. The middle section of the piece is the most frenetic, with rapid-fire rhythms and complex counterpoint. The final section returns to the more contemplative mood of the opening, with a series of quiet, delicate gestures that gradually fade away. Overall, Edges is a challenging and complex work that showcases Bedrossian's unique compositional voice. The piece has been performed by ensembles around the world and has received critical acclaim for its innovative approach to contemporary classical music.

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