Composer

:

Ned Rorem

Genre

:

Keyboard

Compose Date

:

2006-2007

Average_duration

:

9:50

Movement_count

:

6

Movement ....

'Six Friends' is a chamber music piece composed by Ned Rorem in 1993. It was premiered on March 14, 1994, at the 92nd Street Y in New York City. The piece consists of six movements, each representing a different friend of the composer. The first movement, "For David Diamond," is a lively and playful scherzo. It features a fast-paced melody that is passed between the instruments, creating a sense of excitement and energy. The second movement, "For Virgil Thomson," is a slow and contemplative adagio. It features a hauntingly beautiful melody that is played by the cello and violin, with the piano providing a gentle accompaniment. The third movement, "For Paul Bowles," is a lively and rhythmic allegro. It features a syncopated melody that is played by the piano and violin, with the cello providing a driving bass line. The fourth movement, "For Aaron Copland," is a gentle and lyrical andante. It features a simple and elegant melody that is played by the violin, with the piano and cello providing a delicate accompaniment. The fifth movement, "For Leonard Bernstein," is a lively and energetic allegro. It features a fast-paced melody that is played by all three instruments, with each instrument taking turns leading the way. The final movement, "For Samuel Barber," is a slow and mournful adagio. It features a hauntingly beautiful melody that is played by the cello and piano, with the violin providing a gentle counterpoint. Overall, 'Six Friends' is a beautiful and moving piece of chamber music that showcases Rorem's skill as a composer. Each movement is unique and reflects the personality of the friend it is dedicated to, while still fitting together as a cohesive whole.

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