Fünf Wüstenlieder
(1999) (Five Desert Songs)for solo cello, with own voice and sizzle cymbal (with chain)
Duration: 7'
Territory
This work is available from Boosey & Hawkes
for the world.
World Premiere
10/07/1999
Hoxton Hall, London
Matthew Barley, cello
Programme Note
In these five short pieces, each one blending into the next, the sound material of the cello is joined by that of two others: the cellist’s voice and a sizzle cymbal.
The tonal range of the cello, however, is strictly limited to a few chords, series and ‘patterns’, all of which are played con sordino.
The general mood of the piece is that of contemplation, like a conversation with oneself. Loops, circles and standstills extend the otherwise linear development of the music, while individual parts break away and begin to take their own path; fullness and emptiness alternate rapidly.
Thomas Tangler
