Composer

:

Ingram Marshall

Average_duration

:

8:35

'Cortez' is a contemporary classical composition by American composer Ingram Marshall. It was composed in 1992 and premiered on October 23, 1992, at the San Francisco Conservatory of Music. The piece is divided into three movements and has a total duration of approximately 25 minutes. The first movement, titled "The Hidden World," begins with a low drone that gradually builds in intensity. The drone is accompanied by various percussion instruments, including maracas and a bass drum. The overall effect is one of tension and anticipation, as if something important is about to happen. The movement then transitions into a more melodic section, with a solo trumpet playing a mournful melody over a bed of strings and percussion. The movement ends with a return to the opening drone, which fades away into silence. The second movement, titled "The Burning Mirror," is more rhythmic and energetic than the first. It begins with a pulsing rhythm played on maracas and other percussion instruments, which is soon joined by a driving bass line and a repeating melody played on a synthesizer. The overall effect is one of urgency and momentum, as if the music is propelling the listener forward. The movement builds to a climax before abruptly ending. The third and final movement, titled "The Last Conquistador," is the most dramatic and intense of the three. It begins with a series of dissonant chords played on a synthesizer, which are soon joined by a pounding drumbeat and a wailing trumpet. The music is chaotic and frenzied, as if representing the violence and destruction wrought by the Spanish conquistadors. The movement gradually builds in intensity before reaching a final, explosive climax. Overall, 'Cortez' is a powerful and evocative composition that combines elements of classical music, jazz, and world music. Its use of percussion instruments and synthesizers gives it a modern, contemporary feel, while its themes of conquest and violence give it a timeless relevance.

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