Scherzo sketch for orchestra (2008)
Composition commissioned by “young.euro.classic” 2008
Orchestra:
2(2nd also Picc.) 2(2nd=Eh.) 2 2 - 2 2 0 0 - Timp. Str.
Duration: 8 mins
Premiere July 23, 2008, Shanghai Concert Hall
DE 31.07.2008, University of Music and Theater Munich
young.euro.classic Festival Orchestra China-Germany, conducted by Muhai Tang
In the years before 2008, I mainly composed music that is polydimensional, that takes place in quotation-like interweavings of heterogeneous levels. Being commissioned to write a short orchestral piece on the subject of “competition” for the young.euro.classic festival meant a change, and thus also a liberation.
The composition of a Beethoven orchestra suggested an approach to a classical form - it has become that of a modified scherzo that draws its energy from a single rhythmic movement motif - also a homage to Beethoven. On an imaginary stage, the instruments of the orchestra become restlessly competing characters who try to snatch the motif from one another. A trio section forms a short rest, then everything strives towards the climax, the attempt at a new beginning (strings) finally fails because of the objections of the colleagues (wind section).
Anno Schreier