Mandala (2021)

Instrumentation: Open instrumentation

Duration: Open

Dedicated to: Lawrence Gwozdz

Movements: One movement

Program Note by the Composer: When writing this piece I was inspired in particular by the Tibetan Buddhist tradition of sand mandalas. Monks will often spend days or even weeks building these elaborate artworks only to ritualistically sweep them away when complete. Every grain of sand is a blessing and the action of destruction is a reminder of the impermanence of all things. Mandala consists of a series of eight improvised sound complexes that are introduced one by one then are eliminated by order of appearance. In this way, the composition is a combination of newer additive/subtractive processes and the older tradition of the chaconne (with improvisational elements as well). I also specify that the piece should be performed by only one person yet the soloist must play/sing two different instruments simultaneously.

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