Proximities
Benjamin Bierman
About this work:
Proximities (2002)
Proximities is primarily concerned with group dynamics: how the various instruments of the ensemble work within their own confines, as well as how they interact with the rest of the group. Instrumentalists have an opportunity to exhibit virtuosity, yet while these virtuostic displays illuminate the ensemble’s technique, they primarily function as points of view. The interaction of these points of view is perhaps best explained through an analogy with a family or a group of close friends: at times they communicate freely and easily in respectful harmony, while at other times they speak over each other, having no interest in what each other has to say. It is interesting to note that though there is little agreement on a point of view, the resultant cacophony is strong and beautiful, and has taken on a life of its own.
Year composed: 2002
Duration: 00:06:00
Ensemble type: Chamber or Jazz Ensemble, Without Voice:Other Combinations, 6-9 players
Instrumentation: 1 Flute, 1 English Horn, 1 Violin, 1 Cello, 1 Guitar (Classical/Acoustic), 1 Mandolin
Instrumentation notes: eng hn=oboe