Composer

:

Giacinto Scelsi

Genre

:

Chamber

Style

:

Chamber Music

Compose Date

:

1974

Average_duration

:

6:21

Giacinto Scelsi's "Et maintenant c'est à vous de jouer" is a composition for solo violin that was completed in 1963. The piece was premiered in Paris in 1964 by the French violinist Serge Blanc. The title of the piece translates to "And now it's your turn to play," which reflects Scelsi's interest in improvisation and the idea of the performer as a co-creator of the music. The piece is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct character. The first movement is marked "Lento," and is characterized by long, sustained notes that gradually build in intensity. The second movement, marked "Allegro," is more rhythmic and energetic, with fast, virtuosic passages that showcase the technical abilities of the performer. The final movement, marked "Lento," returns to the slower, more contemplative mood of the first movement, with a focus on sustained notes and subtle shifts in dynamics and timbre. One of the most striking characteristics of "Et maintenant c'est à vous de jouer" is its use of microtonal intervals. Scelsi was interested in exploring the nuances of pitch that fall between the standard Western tuning system, and he often used quarter-tones and other microtonal intervals in his compositions. This gives the piece a unique, otherworldly quality that is both haunting and beautiful. Another notable aspect of the piece is its use of extended techniques, such as harmonics, glissandi, and unconventional bowing techniques. These techniques allow the performer to create a wide range of sounds and textures, from delicate, ethereal harmonics to harsh, abrasive sounds that push the limits of the instrument. Overall, "Et maintenant c'est à vous de jouer" is a challenging and rewarding piece for the performer and listener alike. Its use of microtonal intervals and extended techniques creates a rich, complex sonic landscape that invites exploration and interpretation.

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