Work Overview
A se stesso ('to oneself') consists of very sparse slow-moving vocal textures punctuated by delicate instrumental passages. The words are taken from a poem by Leopardi. The vocal writing emphasises a clear avoidance of ornament of any form, including vibrato. Additionally the harmonic language is strictly constrained throughout.
Work Details
Year: 1986
Instrumentation: Vocal quartet (2 sopranos, alto, bass), flute (and piccolo), trombone, violoncello, percussion 1 (timpani, large tam tam, crotales), percussion 2 (timpani, bass drum, cymbals), harp.
Difficulty: Advanced — Very exposed parts for voices and instruments; except for the harp, the rhythmic and harmonic language is not difficult.
Commission note: Commissioned by Flederman with funds provided by Australia Council. Music Board.
First performance: by Flederman, Sydney University Chamber Choir, Nicholas Routley — 19 Oct 86. Sydney Opera House
A setting of the poem by Giacomo Leopardi.
Analysis
Program note: Robert Douglas's "A Se Stesso"
© Robert Douglas
Source: Source: Flederman Program, 1985
Performances of this work
19 Oct 86: Sydney Opera House. Featuring Flederman, Sydney University Chamber Choir, Nicholas Routley.
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