Mark Pollard: Under Simple Stars (1989)

Abstract

"This work was commissioned by Mardi McSullea in 1989 with assistance from the Australia Council. The title was inspired by star-gazing, and for the composer seems to describe aptly the fascinating interaction of complexity and beauty that exists in natural phenomena. Under Simple Stars attempts to capture aspects of this interaction through an exploration of musical abstractions and the natural beauty of the alto flute. The opening evocative breath and bent sounds gradually move to definite notes, and then a melody. Performance enhancement is used through the addition of digital reverb to provide a constant sense of depth. Performer and technology interact to form a soundscape." -- Mark Pollard