Horn 1: c1 - c3
Horn 2: c - a2
Horn 3: A - a2
Horn 4: A - d2
Horn A: G - g2
Horn B: G - f#2
Horn C: G - f#2
Creator's Comments
A study foor seven horns
- A challenging demonstration of high energy, as a 3-horn choir is cleverly interwoven with the 4-horn group to demonstrate the dynamic vigor of The Horn. Fast tongueing, sharp attacks, rhythmic concentration and solid tone quality are all on display.
Performance Notes
A very interesting composition, with three horns (A, B, C) seated in between the traditional horn quartet setup (so, from left to right, audience view, 4 C 3 B 2 A 1). Hyde starts out with the quartet against the trio, but then mixes them up to provide varying sounds colours coming from different directions.
Ergophonics is rhythmic in nature, with the parts interweaving, but at the same time juxtaposing the two groups. This also results in the range being rather limited, and therefore great for a not very advanced ensemble. Some of the stopped passages are in the lower region, which makes them difficult, and there are a fair number of dynamic markings, as well as many accents.
Given that the repertoire for 7 horns is so limited, this is a very interesting and welcome addition, taking the focus away from the usual, and re-directing it to rhythm and ensemble playing. The only downside to an otherwise good presentation is the inclusion of a score in sounding pitch. Check out the samples currently available on the Cortett Music website!