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Work

The Spider Maiden and the Runaway Plum Blossom (chamber opera)

by Paul Smith (2016)

Work Overview

This chamber opera is in seven scenes and is inspired by traditional Japanese haiku which commonly reflect on the transition between the seasons. The plum blossom is a common signifier of spring. The plot of the opera follows the Plum Blossom who is caught in the Spider Maiden's web while attempting to see the world by riding on the wind on the last day of spring. The two characters sing about their respective positions in the world and the Spider Maiden offers the Plum Blossom one opportunity to be set free by solving a musical riddle.

Work Details

Year: 2016

Instrumentation: Soprano, mezzo-soprano, flute/piccolo, clarinet in B flat/bass clarinet in B flat, viola, cello.

Duration: 28 min.

Difficulty: Medium

Commission note: This work was commissioned by Singapore-based Chamber.Sounds

First performance: by Chamber.Sounds — The Esplanade, Singapore

Subjects

Performances of this work

Unknown date: The Esplanade, Singapore. Featuring Chamber.Sounds.

30 Sep 2018: at Blush Opera Spring Gala Concert (To be confirmed). Featuring Blush Opera, The Academy (Coffs Harbour).

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