Sextet
Robert Paterson
About this work:
Although this sextet is not intended to openly convey a specific program, the work itself is inspired by television shows that expose people in the act of committing crimes. The form and materials are developed from imaginary scenes depicting a day in the life of a criminal: running scared (from the police), traveling on the interstate, having nightmares while sleeping (probably in a rundown motel in the middle of nowhere, off of old Route 66), looming shadows and hysterical visions, breaking out in cold sweat when someone supposedly comes looking and traveling again at 1:00 a.m. To make a long story short, the unfortunate criminal is finally caught in the end.
Year composed: 1999
Duration: 00:08:15
Ensemble type: Chamber or Jazz Ensemble, Without Voice:Other Combinations, 6-9 players
Instrumentation: 1 Flute, 1 Clarinet, 1 Percussion (General), 1 Piano, 1 Violin, 1 Cello
Instrumentation notes: Flute doubling Alto Flute and Police Whistle. Cello doubling Police Whistle. Percussion Instruments Needed: Vibraphone (with working motor), Crotales (high octave), Concert Bass Drum, 4 Tom Toms, Medium Suspended Cymbal, Tambourine (mounted), 5 Temple Blocks, Medium Wood Block,Slapstick (one-handed), Police Whistle.