The Fundamental Object
for Viola and Tape (2004)
Suspicious Motives Music
The Fundamental Object
for Viola and Tape (2004)
Duration 5:00
Program Notes
The Fundamental Object (2004) was composed at the request of David Bursack for concerts in New York City and the American Academy in Rome. The piece begins by quoting the opening, elemental motive from the Brahms String Sextet No.2, Op. 36 before spinning this into long, arching melodic lines.
Performance Notes
Accidentals do not carry through the bar. They refer only to the note they precede, except in cases of immediate repetition, where, for example C#,C,C would mean C#,C#,C# (even with intervening rests). Cautionary accidentals have been added (in parenthesis) for clarity.
In concert, both the quality and positioning of the playback system are very important. Time in rehearsal should be devoted to balancing the volume and timbre and to positioning. Loudspeakers should be capable of reproducing the full audible frequency spectrum and use of a subwoofer is ideal. While multiple speakers beyond a single stereo pair may be used, at least one pair must be positioned on stage, very close to the performer to create an ensemble sound. Any sound coming from remote speakers should be at a lower volume than the main, stage pair. If on-stage speakers are not possible, a microphone or pickup on the instrument is essential to properly mix the prerecorded and live sound.