What do you think about Krzysztof Penderecks “Threnody to the Victims of Hiroshima”?
In analyzing the composition Penderecki wrote I would like to offer these points about it. This may or may not change anyone’s mind about how you view this highly provocative and controversial composition. Everyone is intitled to their own opinion. However, a little background of how the work was created always makes the purpose for the work seem clearer. I offer these points: l. Penderecki’s purpose of writing this work was to experiment with techniques of counterpoint using the 12 tone scale, as were many composers of the time. 2. After completing his piece he named it 8’37 and/or 8’36. This is how long the composition lasts. 3. Then he searched for association after hearing the performance of the music. The decided to dedicate it to the victims of Hiroshima. 4. In 1964, Penderecki wrote,”Let the Threnody express my firm belief that the sacrifice of Hiroshima will never be forgotten and lost.” 5. Note that the word “threnody” means dirge or elegy, which is like a poem written to expr
