Cyclic Harmony (1998)
clarinet choir or saxophone choir: 10 mins.
A single movement piece exploring the rich sonorities of the single-reed ensemble, this work was commissioned by the British Clarinet Ensemble, conductor Charles Hine, and first performed by them at the EuroCass Festival in Krakow, Poland. in July 1998.
Based on a simple but logical melodic/harmonic cycle, it contrasts rhythmic drive with rich, sonorous chords, and makes full use of the wide range of the ensemble.
Clarinet Version:
Eb, 6 Bb, 2 Altos (or Bb), 2 Bass, Contrabass (or Contra-alto or Bass)
Saxophone version: 1 Sopranino, 2 Sopranos, 4 Altos, 4 Tenors, 2 Baritones, 1 Bass
Standard approx. ABRSM Grade 8
Recorded by the British Clarinet Ensemble on the CD `Gordian Knots’
`Draws the listener in in a most hypnotic way…beguiling harmonies and rhythms…a fascinating and original piece’ – Andrew Smith, Clarinet and Saxophone magazine.
Score and parts of clarinet version available from June Emerson Wind Music, Sheet Music Direct, or Sheet Music Plus
Score and parts of saxophone version available to special order from the composer
Link to complete recording (clarinet ensemble)
Recording with scrolling score (clarinet ensemble)
Audio extract: