Ultramarine (2024) is inspired by the radiant sparkles of sunlight reflecting on the water’s surface. The ever-changing nature of the sea has always fascinated me. Its deep blue color is calming, yet it evokes the feeling of standing on the edge of an abyss. Sudden changes in musical texture in Ultramarine depict the contrasting colors of the sea under different weather patterns. It showcases both the radiant sunlight and the ominous grayness of a storm, as well as the circles created by raindrops on the still water’s surface.
Commissioned with the generous support of Elizabeth and Justus Schlichting. Additional support from the ASCAP Foundation.
Premiered by: Vashawn Arora (bass clarinet), Thomas Gauthier-Lang (alto saxophone), Jacob Fullinwider (marimba), Robert Grahmann (drum set), Stef Van Vynckt (harp), Richard An (piano), Roan Ma (violin), Rachel Smith (viola), Sahara von Hattenberger (cello). Conductor – Nick Photinos
Performed on LOUD Weekend as part of the Bang on a Can Summer Music Festival at MASS MoCA
www.bangonacan.org
video by Joe Aidonidis at Great Sky Media, audio by Todd Vos
