Chamber ensemble of oboe, clarinet, bassoon, horn, piano and voice
Duration
1' 40"
Date Of Composition
Written over a few days in mid April of 2008. Sketch, manuscript score and engraved score produced in
rapid succession in that time.
Commissioner
Southern Cross Soloists - Paul Dean
Context For Creation
Paul Dean had decided to commission a number of Queensland based composers for a new series to be
presented by Southern Cross Soloists focused on literary works. This performance/commissioning project
was based on the works of poet, Sam Watson. Dean's brief to me was to produce a short (90 second) work
based on Watson's poem, "Rip".
I have had no response in writing to this work in any form.
Reflections
There is a simplicity for me in this work that is in contrast to the angst and anger apparent in the
text. It's uncomplicated rhythmic structure and simple melodic motifs provide a uncluttered canvas on
which to position Sam Watson's narrative.