Dilukkenjon
Doug Opel
About this work:
Dilukkenjon was originally composed for orchestra in 1992/93, during my studies at the University of Michigan. I began reworking the orchestral version upon arriving at Indiana University in 1993 and in the process, became aware of a dualism. On one hand, Dilukkenjon required the grandiose styles and timbral richness of a full orchestra. But at the same time, its rhythmic complexities were conducive to a chamber setting. Because much of the piece was written at the piano, I decided then that the second, chamber version should be for 2 pianos.
The work opens with a driving, syncopated rhythm. A fierce competition immediately ensues as one piano constantly attempts to overpower the other by elaborating, overlapping and interrupting an established line. Several ostinati provide the foundation on which both pianos race to "find" the quote of an original canzona and a Bach Chorale ("Erschienen is der herrlich Tag", from Cantata BWV67). Obscured, "imperfect' statements of each are attempted by both pianos before the literal version of the chorale is found by Piano 2 just before the final climax. Here, the opening material is overlapped as both pianos attempt to regain dominance. A brief, quiet victory by Piano 2 occurs before Piano 1 again interrupts and both rush to the end.
The title, Dilukkenjon, is derived from the names of my good friends Diane Bailey, Walter Lukken and Jon Grose to whom the work is dedicated.
Version: 2 pianos
Year composed: 1996
Duration: 08:30:20
Ensemble type: Keyboard:Two Pianos, 4 or More Hands
Instrumentation: