Composer

:

Beat Furrer

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Compose Date

:

1995 - 1999

Average_duration

:

18:11

"Stimmen" is a contemporary choral work composed by Beat Furrer in 2006. The piece was premiered on October 20, 2006, at the Donaueschingen Festival in Germany. The composition consists of four movements, each with its own unique characteristics. The first movement, "Stimme I," begins with a soft, sustained chord from the chorus. The percussionists enter with a series of sharp, staccato hits, creating a sense of tension and anticipation. The chorus then begins to sing a series of fragmented phrases, with each voice part entering at different times. The percussionists continue to punctuate the music with their sharp hits, adding to the sense of urgency and intensity. The second movement, "Stimme II," is more rhythmic and energetic than the first. The percussionists play a driving, syncopated rhythm while the chorus sings a series of short, repetitive phrases. The music builds in intensity, with the percussionists adding more complex rhythms and the chorus singing with greater force and energy. The third movement, "Stimme III," is more atmospheric and ethereal than the previous two. The percussionists play a series of shimmering, metallic sounds while the chorus sings long, sustained notes. The music is more contemplative and introspective, with a sense of stillness and calm. The final movement, "Stimme IV," is the most intense and dramatic of the four. The percussionists play a series of thunderous, explosive sounds while the chorus sings with great force and energy. The music builds to a climax, with the percussionists and chorus reaching a frenzied, chaotic peak before abruptly ending. Overall, "Stimmen" is a complex and challenging work that showcases Furrer's skill as a composer. The piece combines intricate rhythms, fragmented melodies, and unconventional vocal techniques to create a unique and powerful musical experience.

More....