Blue Collusion and Entourage

for solo bass clarinet and flute/piccolo, oboe/english horn,
french horn, marimba, violin, viola, cello, and double bass
composed 2004; duration 14 minutes
commissioned by Henri Bok

The work is almost symphonic in scope, with much tutti treatment of the accompanying ensemble. The opening is fast and virtuoso with strong dynamics from the ensemble and insisting, downwards melodic motion from the soloist. This is the contrasted by a section of hesitant character which provides a soft, sustained background with gentle rhythmic interceptions giving ample room for the bass clarinet’s sustained phrases. A short cadenza leads to high, punctuated sheets of sound, which the soloist contrasts with the bass clarinet’s lowest notes. Stronger dynamics then invite for staccato action, and the music evolves into abundant rhythms before the final part commences with rich, aleatoric playing.

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