Density 21.5 for Solo Flute

by Edgard Varèse

The musical structure of the piece has been intricately analyzed.

Varèse, (December 22, 1883 – November 6, 1965), was a prolific and creative French-born composer. His early influences included fellow French countryman Claude Debussy and Eric Satie. He quickly developed his own unique style. In addition, Varèse was influenced by artists of his era.

Although the piece was written in 1936, some flutists label the piece as classical rather than contemporary.

It's important to play the rhythms precisely and observe all markings closely, including dynamics and tempo.

My opinion is that this isn't a "nice" piece to listen. It's not sweet and lovely. But it's very cool and very powerful. We flutists don't often get the chance to do this. Flutists become typecast as "prissy" and wimpy, but this piece is anything but.

What are your thoughts about this piece?

Do you like this piece? Maybe you don't! Tell me what you think about it either way. You don't have to be able to play the piece to give your opinion. You just have to love playing the flute!

Top of Density 21.5 for solo flute by Edgard Varèse

Cyberflute home page

New! Comments