Ensemble: orchestra – 2(picc).2.2.2-4.0.0.0-1perc-str
Duration: 7’
Written: 2021
Commissioned by the Netherlands Philharmonic Orchestra
Premiere: February 13, 2022, Netherlands Philharmonic Orchestra, cond.: Gergely Madars, Concertgebouw, Amsterdam.
Program notes:
From Picasso to Kieslowsky, artists have explored the resonance of the colour blue.
While working on the piece, I was inspired by the monochrome paintings of Yves Klein. These pictures focusing on only one colour have an immediate and primary effect, while requiring in depth study to explore the almost infinite number of shades present in them. I was particularly struck by the range of emotions these works produced.
I took this same idea and applied it to this composition creating “blue harmonies” and “blue melodies”. There is a single motif at the core of the piece that can be regarded as a story of this musical idea. Using gradually changing orchestral colours, the motif progresses through different characterisations, evoking tenderness, comfort, distress, enthusiasm and reflection.
The colour blue seems especially relevant to our times. I invite you to experience your own shades of blue in this work.
