Luciano Berio
Sequenza II
(1963)
for harp
Duration: 8'
Dedication: a Francis Pierre
Instrumentation details:
Harfe
Berio - Sequenza II for harp
Audio preview
Work introduction
Sequenza II for
harp was written five years after No. 1, for flute; a total of 14 pieces
bearing that title followed at regular intervals until 2002. With this Sequenza, Berio embarked on an exciting
voyage of discovery, searching for new ways the harp can be played and made to
sound. And the result is indeed exciting – for instance in the fortissimo chords which alternate with mezzo forte chords and piano melodic fragments, unleashing
terrific dynamism, in line with Berio’s intention to reveal “the harder, more
powerful, more aggressive side” of the harp.