Stuart Hille: Mizu to Kori (1988)

Abstract

"This work was completed in March 1988. The title, meaning 'Water and Ice', is derived from the fact that the work explores a relationship between strictly structural sections and flowing improvisatory forms. The term 'Ice' refers to the two tightly controlled outer sections, both of which develop the same musical material. 'Water' refers to the middle section which is intended to present an evocative contrast of structural and emotive content. The players are positioned well apad in order to create a heightened quadraphonic effect, and to enhance the ritualistic quality of the music. I have used a transliteral Japanese title in order to numinously evoke some of the power and serenity created by that country's percussion music." -- Stuart Hille