Infinite reverberation (e.g. Lexicon PCM81 or PCM91) General reverberation (e.g. Lexicon PCM81) 4 head-sets with microphones for voice A minimum of 4 directional microphones depending on the hall. Mixer & stereo diffusion
As the title suggests, Trois rivieres is divided into three separate sections. The first part introduces all the instrumental colours used in the piece. The rhythmic aspect is here nearly eliminated, giving room for the timbral scales, colours, resonances, attacks and textures to come to the fore. The instruments come from all members of the percussion family, but unpitched instruments are given a primary role. The second part adds a rhythmic aspect to the nuances of colour and texture, as an ostinato is developed in markedly varying directions. The last part is an epilogue, recalling components of the two preceding parts. Here, earlier aspects of the material are reorganised and placed in different relationships to each other. The voices of the percussionists act together as an extension of the instruments, being used to create either rhythmically free textures or strictly notated rhythms. They are treated instrumentally, combining to create rhythms and timbres. The poem 'La nuit de lune sur le fleuve' (Moonlit night on the river) by the Chinese poet Li Po (701-762) constitutes the material for the voices, which are amplified and further enhanced throughout.
The secretive, mystical Giacinto Scelsi saw music as a spiritual revelation. His early works are influenced by music from all eras - medieval, neo-baroque, twelve-tone - and by Eastern philosophies. His later works are distinguished by their concentration on single notes and sounds; in doing this he revolutionised the role of sound in Western music and his oeuvre can be considered a forerunner of modern electroacoustic music. This piece for Percussion Quartet is a 'Ritual March for the Funeral of Achilles'; it is quite short, brooding and out-of-kilter. Scelsi uses a combination of group textures and short motifs that draw attention to themselves to create a tense atmosphere. This folio contains four copies of the Score for ease of rehearsal and performance.