Symbols of piece

 ‘Symbols of Piece’ was commissioned by Psappha Ensemble as part of their Composing for Eastern European Folk Instruments scheme. The work is about bringing the most out of the composer-performer relationship. Both individuals have unique tastes and musical experiences, and the intention is to showcase these in order to create a unique collaboration.

Much of the first section of the piece is improvised, with only a structural outline and some cues regarding material given to the performer, taking textural inspiration from a Doina and allowing them to really bring out their character as a performer. The remainder of the piece is more strictly notated and contrasts significantly with the opening, making more of the electronic parts and directly referencing Contemporary styles of Popular music. The material used however greatly reflects the opening, with the melody being an inversion of the introductory material and similar harmony used.