Search

"Times Seven," from Piano Potpourri, by Zenobia Powell Perry

Times Seven is a 6-minute, 7-page piece composed by Zenobia Powell Perry in 1985. The title "Times Seven" may be based on a passage from Matthew 18:21-22 from the Christian New Testament, but there is no source to conclusevely prove that. This piece has many dissonant harmonies. It starts with an Adagio section with two voices that move in parallel fifths. This material is developed quite a bit throughout this piece. There are 6 different tempo markings. The character each section is very different from one another - some are lyrical, some are dramatic. The opening material can be heard in every section, it is sometimes in the chords, in the top voice, or in the bass.

This piece is in the advanced level. It requires the pianist to play on a wide range on the keyboard using many different articulations. Technique to voice the melody in the chords is important to make the opening theme stand out. 

Zenobia Powell Perry (1908-2004) was an African American composer, professor and civil rights activist. She taught in some historically black colleges and universities. Her musical style is described as “music with clear, classic melodies.” She studied piano and violin in her childhood. Her most powerful musical experience was hearing Hazel Harrison (African-American pianist) in a concert.

 

Zenobia Powell Perry

Related Articles