Two Controversies and a Conversation

After the premiere of Conversations at the Aldeburgh Festival in June of 2011 Oliver Knussen suggested that I expand this piece. I decided to add two more movements, which became the two controversies. The first of the two controversies has the percussion in the leading role and the second features the piano which ends the movement in a flourish.

Elliott Carter, December 22 2011

Reproduction Rights
This note can be reproduced in concert programmes with a credit to the composer.

…[Two Controversies and a Conversation] emerges as a genial, economic rumination on percussive structures and strictures. Colin Currie and Eric Huebner, the soloists, trade snappy, tricky rhythmic impulses on a piano plus numerous tapping/stroking/banging devices. Supporting instruments add unpredictable commentary and echoes.
— Martin Bernheimer, Financial Times