10 Circles
While most are familiar with abstract art and dance, how does that translate to music? Imagine if music were not bound by a linear sequence but played in a random order, resulting in a unique experience every time. Or consider music performed in multiple tempos simultaneously, embracing Albert Einstein’s theory that time is relative and varies based on your perspective.
10 Circles delves into these fascinating ideas through the lens of circle-music, a form I discovered through my composition teacher Dr. Cindy McTee. McTee’s own circle-music composition for my bassoon teacher, Sue Schrier, inspired this exploration. This piece is composed of ten distinct sections, each containing musical phrases that can be played in any sequence at any time. This fluid approach to composition requires a novel style of conducting. Here, the conductor is more than a timekeeper; they sculpt the piece in real-time, influencing its orchestration.
The musicians navigate their own routes through the sections, guided by the surrounding sonic landscape. While themes may reappear, their occurrence and interpreter are entirely unpredictable. 10 Circles employs quartal chords and octatonic scales, creating a sense of tonality that is tangible yet abstract. The result is a work that challenges and redefines our understanding of musical time and structure.
10 Circles
