"Figures" - Autograph Orchestral Seating Plan and Signed Program

Autograph document in the hand of the important composer and conductor, showing the orchestral seating plan for his work Figures (1958–66). Undated [likely Baden-Baden, 1985.] In his tiny and precise hand, Berlioz has mapped out the seating plan for the three separate instrumental groups. Another hand has enlarged some of the words to make the plan more easily legible. An interesting and visually striking document. 1 p. on hole-punched graph paper. Light stains at the right, with light edge wear; overall very good. 10.5 x 8 inches (27 x 20.8 cm).

Together with a signed concert program from the festival "Hommage à Pierre Boulez," given by the broadcaster Südwestfunk in Baden-Baden, March 29–April 1, 1985. Boulez has signed on the cover (translated from the German): "With many thanks / P. Boulez / 2 April 1985." Very fine. 38 pp. 8.25 x 7.75 inches (21 x 19.5 cm).

Boulez’s Figures – Doubles – Prismes, or its basis, was first heard in 1958 and then repeatedly revised and extended. Written for a large if unconventional orchestra, the work uses the players unconventionally in their seating arrangement (like Stockhausen’s Gruppen), effectively in three mini orchestras placed left, centre and right.  All three orchestras are guided by a single conductor on a platform at the front of the stage. The title conveys how a Boulezian musical design typically unfolds: an idea (figure) is presented, instantly setting up its own possibilities of variations (double), and of intricate harmonic extension and refraction (prisme). In Boulez’s own words: “Figures refers to simple elements, sharply characterised by dynamics, violence, softness, slowness, and so forth. These elements can be purely harmonic, or more rhythmically oriented, or purely melodic. They are not themes in the conventional way, but ‘states’ of music being.” (15700)

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Signed Document/Item

Autograph Document

Classical Music

$1,600.00

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