Composer

:

Sofia Gubaidulina

Genre

:

Chamber

Style

:

Piece

Compose Date

:

1994

First Performance

:

1994

Average_duration

:

16:50

In Erwartung is a composition by the Russian composer Sofia Gubaidulina. It was composed in 1985 and premiered on October 9, 1985, in Hamburg, Germany. The piece is written for a solo soprano and a chamber orchestra consisting of 15 musicians. The composition is divided into four movements, each of which represents a different stage of the protagonist's emotional journey. The first movement, "Erwartung" (Expectation), is characterized by a sense of anticipation and tension. The soprano sings a series of fragmented phrases, accompanied by sparse, dissonant chords from the orchestra. The second movement, "Entdeckung" (Discovery), is marked by a sudden shift in mood. The soprano's voice becomes more lyrical, and the orchestra introduces a new, more melodic theme. This movement represents a moment of revelation or discovery for the protagonist. The third movement, "Verzweiflung" (Despair), is the emotional climax of the piece. The soprano's voice becomes more agitated and frenzied, and the orchestra responds with a series of violent, dissonant outbursts. This movement represents the protagonist's descent into despair and madness. The final movement, "Erkenntnis" (Realization), is marked by a sense of resolution and acceptance. The soprano's voice becomes more serene, and the orchestra introduces a new, more peaceful theme. This movement represents the protagonist's eventual realization and acceptance of her situation. Overall, In Erwartung is a highly emotional and expressive work, characterized by Gubaidulina's use of dissonant harmonies, fragmented melodies, and unconventional instrumental techniques. The piece is often cited as one of Gubaidulina's most powerful and influential works, and it has been performed and recorded by numerous orchestras and soloists around the world.

More....