aphorism
Greek composer
Definition
An extremely brief, concentrated musical statement that contains a complete expressive idea. Kurtág's output is defined by the aphoristic impulse: his pieces often last under a minute, yet each is a fully formed utterance.
Interpretive Guidance
Approach each aphoristic piece as a complete world. The brevity demands total commitment to every note — nothing is filler, nothing decorative. Give each gesture its full weight before releasing it.