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Clear Blue (2011) Duration: 5' 30" Instrumentation: piano Alternate Versions: Availability: from the composer Recordings: n/a Program Notes: The simple and brief four-note motif which begins "Clear Blue", establishes several important musical components of this short composition. Primarily, the motif initiates the pervasive and forward-moving rhythmic energy of the first half of the piece. But it is also an open-ended gesture that does not contain any real sense of resolution. This propels the music forward to find that resolution. Lastly, it is just an simple little blues riff that, compositionally, could be used to guide the trajectory of the music in any number of alternate directions. With the opening motif being referenced only occasionally throughout the remainder of the work (most notably at the end), the music does eventually find a place of resolve and repose around the mid-point. The music transitions to a more contemplative and reflective mood here, before returning for the final occurrence of the opening material. This final occurrence however, is supported by harmonic structures and embellishments not heard originally. "Clear Blue" was commissioned in late 2010 by Dutch pianist Marcel Worms for the "New Blues for Piano" project. First Performance:
The "Jazzweek" Festival (January 27, 2012) in Leiden, Netherlands with Marcel Worms (piano). Other Performances: |