On the Invitatorium (Deum Verum Unum) for string sextet

Instrumentation

Cello
1
Double bass
1
Viola
1
Violin
3

Additional Information

This piece, which developed from a semi-improvised live-looping performance, may also be played by a small string orchestra. The Deum Verum Unum plainchant by Étienne de Liège (c.850-920 C.E.) forms a cantus firmus, initially in the viola part. Each numbered section/rehearsal mark denotes a line of the chant. At section 6, the organum section of the original chant is shared between viola and cello/bass, and at section 10 the cello reiterates the chant's main refrain. A variety of string textures and styles of playing is explored here. A slightly rustic timbre is intended and the audience should be able to 'hear the wood' of the instruments. Timing is allowed to be a little loose within sections; the parts should be heard as if weaving in and out of each other.

Details

Year
Minutes
3