December 11, 20169 yr Hi, as I am currently studying Messiaen (and counterpoint, on the other hand), here is a piece I've written using several of his modes.
December 12, 20169 yr The way you use to write runs sometimes (using held notes, but multiple of them) is kind of weird, especially considering you already have pedal indicated. It's a bit... unsettling, no? Maybe it's a unique way that you use them, but I don't think Messiaen ever intended his pieces to sound uncomfortable. Etude Mode de valeurs is a good example. Your version of it is definitely not improper, it's just different. Nice form with a good level of recall and new material. Interesting work for sure!
December 12, 20169 yr Author Thanks! Well, I'm not trying to imitate Messiaen. It would be an impossible task, I think. In fact. I never try to imitate any one (Schönberg, Bartok, or whoever...) But I do is learn about their languages and write what I want. I know Messiaen used to have a more "dry" style (to my ears).
December 13, 20169 yr I really appreciate your use of the arpeggio to stop the motion for a moment. It creates a nice contrast. Some moments of this piece have certain jazz qualities, but then become more mysterious and a bit unnerving. I really like music that become momentarily uncomfortable then resolves in comfortable (or even unexpected) ways. The held notes give this piece a misty quality, as if being played in a fog. I think you did a great job! I would definitely play this piece.
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