Kontra-Punkte (Counter-Points, or Against-Points) is a composition for ten instruments by Karlheinz Stockhausen which resolves contrasts among six instrumental timbres, as well as extremes of note values and dynamic levels, into a homogeneous ending texture. Stockhausen described it: "Counter-Points: a series of the most concealed and also the most conspicuous transformations and renewals—with no predictable end. The same thing is never heard twice. Yet there is a distinct feeling of never falling out of an unmistakable construction of the utmost homogeneity. An underlying force that holds things together—related proportions: a structure. Not the same Gestalten in a changing light. But rather this: various Gestalten in the same light, that permeates everything" (Stockhausen 1963, 37).
Date of composition | 1953 (1952-1953) |
Premiered | 1953, May 26th in Cologne, Germany |
Catalogue | Nr. 1 |
Approx. duration | 14 minutes |
Instruments |
Flute
Clarinet Bass Clarinet Bassoon Trumpet Trombone Piano Harp Violin Cello |
Autotranslations beta |
Karlheinz Stockhausen: Kontra-Punkte, Nr. 1 Karlheinz Stockhausen: Kontra-Punkte, Nr. 1 Karlheinz Stockhausen: Kontra-Punkte, Nr. 1 |