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Scoring

1(=afl).1(=corA).1(=Ebcl).1-1.1.1.0-perc(SD)-1.1.1.1.1

Abbreviations (PDF)

Territory
This work is available from Boosey & Hawkes for the world.

World Premiere
01/06/2016
St John's Smith Square, London
London Sinfonietta / Martyn Brabbins
Composer's Notes

Having written five instrumental duets for members of the London Sinfonietta I wanted to find a context for their performance together. I was reminded of Pictures at an Exhibition where Mussorgsky creates something unique with his returning ‘Promenade’. The chorale which surrounds the duets functions like a frame for a painting, which can alter the perception of the artwork and even change its nature. The 10 duettists, who move in five pairs to solo positions at the front – wide or close – are joined by a cello and double bass that can’t move easily, and a side drum player who often acts as leader of the ritual and provides punctuation.

Harrison Birtwistle, 2016



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