Sikorski
”The duo of accordion and clarinet presents an intriguing parallel to the trio formed by flute, viola, and harp: both have become established inspired by individual works. Did Claude Debussy perhaps anticipate that when he composed his Sonata (1915) for the latter ensemble, he was setting a precedent for countless later works for the same trio? Even I myself have composed one (’Corpi celesti’, 2020)!
Accordion and clarinet, of course, form a familiar duo, especially in Klezmer music, but in art music it's relatively new. So many accordion-clarinet duos have desired to perform Jukka Tiensuu's (b. 1948) excellent work ’Plus I’ (1992) that other composers have also recognised the wonderful compatibility of this instrumental pairing. Throughout the world, established duos have emerged, performing numerous works written for these instruments.
I composed the duo ’Capture I’ upon a commission from the Italian Duo Essentia. The piece was completed in late 2021. However, sometimes plans encounter twists and changes, and the world premiere will now take place in Helsinki, Finland, where it will be performed by clarinettist Lauri Sallinen and accordionist Janne Valkeajoki, both great virtuosos of their respective instruments.
The word ’capture’ in English can refer to both a physical apprehension or arrest, as well as to a more abstract concept, such as capturing an idea or mood. The title of the piece doesn't describe the music – music can only be described by music itself! – but rather, it alludes to the well-known tradition of invention from the Baroque era, where a small invention can grow into a complete work. Similarly, ’Capture I’ undergoes development, engaging in a dialogue that ranges from lively and brisk to more contemplative, all within less than ten minutes. The dynamics also change as the clarinet switches to the bass clarinet mid-piece.
The ordinal number in the title hints at a series of works, and so around the same time as ’Capture I’, a second piece written for the kantele solo was also created, known as ’Capture II’. Will there be a continuation? Only time will tell, but I truly hope so!” (Osmo Tapio Räihälä)