Composer

:

Vincent Persichetti

Genre

:

Keyboard

Compose Date

:

1977

First Performance

:

July 14, 1978

Average_duration

:

26:18

Vincent Persichetti's 'Auden Variations, Op. 136' is a composition for orchestra that was composed in 1972. The piece was premiered on March 1, 1973, by the Philadelphia Orchestra under the direction of Eugene Ormandy. The work is based on a poem by W.H. Auden titled "In Memory of W.B. Yeats." The piece is divided into five movements, each of which is based on a different section of the poem. The first movement, "He disappeared in the dead of winter," is a slow and mournful piece that sets the tone for the rest of the work. The second movement, "The parish of rich women," is a lively and playful piece that features a prominent trumpet solo. The third movement, "Earth, receive an honoured guest," is a slow and solemn piece that features a prominent oboe solo. The fourth movement, "The poet will seek," is a fast and energetic piece that features a prominent clarinet solo. The final movement, "Follow, poet, follow right," is a triumphant and celebratory piece that brings the work to a close. The 'Auden Variations' is characterized by Persichetti's use of complex harmonies and rhythms, as well as his skillful orchestration. The piece features a wide range of instrumental colors and textures, and Persichetti makes use of a variety of orchestral techniques, such as pizzicato strings and flutter-tonguing brass. The work is also notable for its use of thematic development, with each movement building on the themes introduced in the previous movement. Overall, the 'Auden Variations, Op. 136' is a powerful and moving work that showcases Persichetti's skill as a composer and orchestrator. Its complex harmonies and rhythms, combined with its rich orchestration and thematic development, make it a challenging and rewarding piece for both performers and listeners alike.

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