Snapdragon
A dancelike, propulsive, intense piece, Snapdragon was composed during a time of media frenzy around America’s initial attacks on Iraq (2003). Snow was falling in Princeton, physically trapping the composer in a tall apartment, while TV media projected sensational stories and graphic images of far away places in turmoil. Bombarded by sensational stories and graphic images, the composer experienced a creeping sense of numbness, as weather and war preyed on her incapacity to act in any tangible way. So, the music that emerged from this time of darkness has a certain physicality, borne of frustration and a sense of disenfranchisement: a way to ‘voice’ when she wasn't at liberty to express her views.
It is music rooted in the body, composed for the body — with dance-like rhythms, pulsing heartbeat, and sighing breaths, Snapdragon powerfully 'voices' emotions that cannot be articulated in words.
Snapdragon was written for the Yesaroun’ Duo, with their fearsome exuberance and technical virtuosity in mind.
Work Details
Year: 2003
Instrumentation: Baritone saxophone, percussion.Percussion required: Vibraphone, Kick Drum, 5 Tom-toms (low, low-mid, mid, mid-high, high), Hi-hat, 3 Brake Drums, Unusual Resonant Metal (e.g. large Chinese Hand Cymbal) Medium Tam-tam (20”), Small Tam-tam, Chinese Opera Gong, 2 Suspended Cymbals (+wire brush), 1 bow.
Duration: 9 min.
Difficulty: Advanced
Dedication note: Dedicated to Yesaroun’ Duo
Written for: Yesaroun’ Duo
First performance: by Yesaroun’ Duo — 1 Mar 03. Taplin Auditorium, Princeton University, NJ, USA
The composer notes the following styles, genres, influences, etc associated with this work:
Rhythmic, driving, energetic, pulsing, jazz-influenced harmonies, drum kit + tuned percussion, baritone saxophone virtuosity. Closest influences: Louis Andriessen, Jack Body, Bach, Steve Reich, jazz.
$ 72.00 AUD
View Product for Purchase'Snapdragon is a masterful composition that truly engages the senses and emotions. The three movements take the listener on a captivating journey, skillfully weaving together various perspectives and fragments to create an intricate tapestry of sound. The opening section's call to prayer-like melody, followed by the rhythmically intense interplay between the orchestra and clarinet, sets the stage for an unforgettable musical experience. The serene second part offers a moment of introspective calm, while the mournful passacaglia of the third section creates an emotional crescendo that leaves a lasting impression. Snapdragon is a must-listen for anyone seeking a transcendent, transformative musical experience.' Kenyon Shankie - 31st March 2023
