Composer

:

George Crumb

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Compose Date

:

1965 - 1969

Average_duration

:

32:04

Movement_count

:

12

Movement ....

George Crumb's 'Madrigals, Books 1-4' is a collection of vocal works that were composed between 1965 and 1969. The pieces were premiered in various locations, including New York, Philadelphia, and Washington D.C. The collection is divided into four books, each containing a different number of pieces. The first book of 'Madrigals' contains five pieces, while the second book has six. The third book is the shortest, with only three pieces, and the fourth book has four. The pieces are written for a small ensemble of voices, with each book featuring a different combination of voices. One of the most notable characteristics of 'Madrigals' is Crumb's use of extended vocal techniques. The singers are required to use a wide range of sounds, including whispers, shouts, and various non-verbal vocalizations. The vocal parts are often highly dissonant, with the singers frequently singing in microtones. Another characteristic of 'Madrigals' is Crumb's use of text. The pieces are based on a variety of texts, including poems by Federico Garcia Lorca and e.e. cummings, as well as traditional folk songs. Crumb often uses the text as a starting point for his compositions, with the vocal parts reflecting the meaning and mood of the words. The pieces in 'Madrigals' are also notable for their use of percussion. Crumb includes a variety of percussion instruments, including maracas, tambourines, and gongs, which are used to create a wide range of sounds and textures. Overall, 'Madrigals, Books 1-4' is a highly innovative and experimental work that showcases Crumb's unique approach to composition. The collection is a testament to the power of the human voice and the creative possibilities of vocal music.

More....