Conchtet

York, David

About the work

This piece is a collection of fragments composed as sketches for my opera scored for a mixed ensemble of Natural and Renaissance instruments. The opera dramatically explores the relationship of a Renaissance Progressive Scientist and Coloniser, and an Island native, who represents the Earth. These fragments are simply an abstract exploration of the sound-world possibilities of these instruments; they are not intended in any way to be heard as an attempt to recreate, imitate or parody the musics of Australia, Tahiti or elsewhere.

First Performance: Guildhall School of Music

Technical notes

The composer can provide the specified instruments for performances, but didgeridoos, gourds and rainsticks are readily available these days, and pebbles can be found on beaches. Conches and other suitable shells can be bought in department store ‘bathroom departments’. They simply need a blow-hole cut with a hacksaw.

Origin

Call for Pieces Entry: Tate Liverpool 2002