Composer

:

Evan Johnson

Genre

:

Chamber

Compose Date

:

2002

Average_duration

:

01:51

Hyphen, for crotales is a contemporary classical composition by Canadian composer Evan Johnson. The piece was composed in 2011 and premiered on October 28th of the same year at the Huddersfield Contemporary Music Festival in the United Kingdom. Hyphen is a single-movement work that explores the sonic possibilities of the crotales, a set of tuned metal discs that are struck with a mallet to produce a high-pitched, shimmering sound. The piece is characterized by its intricate rhythmic patterns and its use of microtonal intervals, which create a sense of tension and instability. The composition is divided into several sections, each of which explores a different aspect of the crotales' sound. The opening section features a series of rapid, staccato notes that gradually build in intensity, creating a sense of urgency and momentum. This is followed by a slower, more contemplative section that emphasizes the crotales' sustained tones and their ability to create a sense of space and atmosphere. As the piece progresses, Johnson introduces a variety of extended techniques, such as bowing and scraping the crotales, which add new textures and colors to the sound palette. The final section of the piece features a series of rapid, virtuosic passages that showcase the full range of the crotales' capabilities. Overall, Hyphen is a challenging and innovative work that pushes the boundaries of what is possible with a single instrument. Its intricate rhythms, microtonal intervals, and use of extended techniques make it a compelling and engaging piece for both performers and audiences alike.

More....