Partita, opus 52 for violin and harp

The “Partita” opus 52 for violin and harp is a commission from harpist Lori Gemmell. La partita is a cycle of variations or dances in continuation and it is the musical form I have chosen to articulate this work that focuses on the reflection of being, its nature and its power to communicate. I could have divided the Partita into twelve small dances for each of the zodiac signs! But the seasons won, giving four movements, each of them crossing three signs. La Partita uses accessories and scordatura for both instruments. We will have two violins including a scordatura, a flexible bow, a metalophone rod, elastics and for the harp, several kinds of mutes.

Jam crosses Fish, Aries, Taurus and refers to Spring, creation, instinct, candor, ethnicity and ritual.

Pavane crosses the Gemini, Cancer, Lion and refers to Summer, warmth, creativity, gratitude and greatness.

Manif crosses the Virgo, Libra, Scorpio and refers to Autumn, protection, organization, harvest and charisma.

Slam crosses the Sagittarius, Capricorn and Aquarius and refers to Winter, survival, resilience, combat and respite.