Blue Shimmer

for vibraphone and fixed media
(2022)

A recording with MIDI-generated vibraphone can be heard at this link
(a live performance has not yet been recorded).

A particular arrangement of certain pitches used in this piece reminds me of melodic shapes associated with blues scales. That prompted me to include passages where my original pitch sets are actually abandoned and more obviously “bluesy” phrases emerge. The title “Blue Shimmer” relates to this aspect of the music, as well as to certain electronic sounds that have a shimmering quality.

The music begins simply, with vibraphone playing slower reverberating note groups contrasted with faster bursts of pitches. Electronic sounds then capture and repeat the faster notes while adding sustain and color to the slower ones. The unpredictable interactions between slower and faster notes gradually become more complex and textures become denser. Eventually, fast dialogues between vibraphone and electronics create an energetic concerto-like effect. In terms of electronic technique, this piece follows the tradition in which all the electronic sounds are sounds of the solo instrument, with some being manipulated beyond easy recognition.

(Duration ca. 7:00. Contact the composer for the score and electronic files.)