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Octet
A mixed octet of surprising directions, play, and reflection
Date
2014
Category
Chamber
Duration
22 minutes
Instrumentation
Oboe, Clarinet, Horn, Bassoon, Violin, Viola, Violoncello, Contrabass
Commission / Artist
Premiere
Andreas Boege, Oboe / Thomas Weißschnur, Clarinet / Lisa Rogers, Horn / Franziska Früh, Violin / Kerstin Beavers, viola / Jérôme Tétard, Violoncello / Johanna Blomenkamp, Contrabass
14 September of 2014, Palais Wittgenstein, Düsseldorf
Composer's Note
My Octet was written in 2014 and premiered at the Palais Wittgenstein in Düsseldorf. The work consists of three contrasting movements, each exploring a distinct character and mood.
“Excursions,” the first movement, opens with a prolonged, melancholic horn solo that sets the tone for a broad, multi-directional journey. The music ventures into unexpected avenues with surprising shifts in style and mood—sometimes active and energetic, other times subdued and reflective.
The “Intermezzo” is a playful exploration of rhythm and movement, building from a lively ascending pattern into a rollicking funhouse of jolly, dancing lines.
“Twilight,” the final movement, is the most introspective of the three. “Twilight,” the final movement, is the most introspective of the three. With occasional hints of swing rhythms and a touch of blues, it remains soulfully reflective in atmosphere. The piece concludes in a tranquil sunset, bringing the journey to a gentle close.
Octet
Kevin Beavers
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