On the Edge of the Abyss

"This one-movement work for 7 violoncellos and 2 aquaphones (waterphones) is dedicated to the composer Viktor Suslin. The term ‘abyss’ here stands for the zone between the fingerboard and bridge of a string instrument. In terms of sound, this is the highest register of the instrument.
The pursuit of this sound range also determines the musical development in this work: first we approach the highest register through double harmonics pizzicati. Then it moves arco to tremolando double harmonics. Finally, the highest register is reached arco espressivo. The work is divided into seven sections. Its overall form can be regarded as a two-part period, framed by an introduction and an epilogue."
(Sofia Gubaidulina)