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Silk Execution

for five trombones, harp, piano and percussion

The concept of Silk Execution appeared in a flash after having seen the painting of Goya "Execution of rebels of the 3rd of May": the trombones, lined up in a row as a kind of execution platoon.

This piece is based on the juxtaposition of ‘cluster chorales’ for trombones, set against percussion, as in Chinese opera. The cluster sound generally plays an important role, and includes the piano, although the piano also often reinforces the harp. The resulting ritualistic sound is festooned with solistic garlands by the harp.
The structure of the trombone clusters (the so-called ‘cluster chorales’) is dependent upon what is musically expressed. At times slowly performed clusters form a background for a virtuoso harp solo, at other times a quick sequence of staccato clusters commands our attention. A slowly performed cluster can consist of five tones, with one tone at a time changing, thus creating very subtle transitions. In this case the clusters are diatonic, as opposed to a more chromatic texture in the case of quick sequences of staccato clusters.
The percussion is largely characterized by a repetetive character. Some passages are completely determined by repetetive rhythms. A contrast to the clusters is formed by the trombones, which play more traditional "orchestral" octaves as a ceremonial gesture at significant climatical moments. At these moments the rest of the ensemble plays a subservient, or, if possible, a supportive role.

Written in the year I geaduated from the Rotterdam Conservatory, Silk Execution is dedicated to my teacher, composer Peter-Jan Wagemans, with whom I studied for 6 years.

 

 

Click here for audio examples 1 and 2 of the work

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