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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

Kevin Beavers

Contact

Tußmannstr. 3
40477 Düsseldorf

+49 211 2298 9620
kbeavers[at]gmail.com

© 2024 Kevin Beavers. All rights reserved

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