Roundabout (for solo violin, 2002) is a piece characterised by a playful, yet nervous energy. The title describes the manner in which the bars and phrases of music frequently “loop-the-loop” before taking off in a new direction. When composing the piece, I made use of a variety of violin performance techniques such as rapid-fire bowing of semiquavers and the alternating of bowed notes with left hand pizzicato. This brings a percussive vigour and a colourful mix of timbres to the narrative of the work.
Wild explores a tonal plateau based primarily around E with other sections centered on A, Bb, and C. Jazz influences are quite evident in the phrase structure and the harmonic implications.
The sections with repeated Es (eg bar 13) should have a raw primal quality, while the rapid passages have a skittering quasi-improvisational character.
Suggested multiphonic fingerings are notated in the score. If they do not reproduce well on your instrument, modifications are acceptable, but must be in keeping with the character of the piece.
I would like to acknowledge James Nightingale for the recommended fingerings and thoughtful and practical suggestions.
This book is designed for beginning instrumentalists, current students and advanced players who would like to improvise and compose. A Score of Ideas can by used as a companion book to supplement instrumental tutor and band books. It will assist music teachers to help their students experience creative activities.
20 Ideas to Explore
Investigate concepts based on the fundamental elements of music:
rhythm, expression, tempo, dynamics, pitch, duration, tone, form, phrasing, articulation
20 Performance Activities to Do
Each idea includes a practical Performance Activity, designed to help students experience the creative idea being explored.
A Score of Ideas... the very essence of what good music teaching practice is all about.
Gary McPherson
Ormond Professor and Head, School of Music
The University of Melbourne
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