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SOLILOQUI XVIII

for piccolo | 9'ca. (2018) download | purchase
PROGRAM NOTE
In Soliloqui XVIII, written for solo piccolo, the boundaries of sonic exploration intertwine with the intimate narrative of the instrument itself. This piece is part of a larger collection entitled "Soliloquis," where each composition explores the capabilities of its respective instrument, pushing the performer to the limits of technique and expression.
Like a solitary voice echoing across vast landscapes, Soliloqui XVIII embarks on a journey that transcends the conventional limitations of the instrument, delving into uncharted territories of sound and emotion. The piccolo emerges as a protagonist, revealing hidden depths and complexities often overlooked in its expressive capabilities.
Throughout the piece, the composer employs a variety of techniques to evoke vivid imagery and emotional resonance. "Soliloqui" features the use of "pointillism," where fragmented motifs are scattered across the musical landscape, creating a mosaic of sound that captivates the listener's imagination. Additionally, the composer introduces a personal technique called "trencadís," inspired by the fragmented mosaic art of Antoni Gaudí, where abrupt shifts in texture and color create a sense of dynamic tension and release.
The sonic palette is further enriched by the sporadic use of "triple tonguing," a technique that adds a twisting, spiraling quality to the music, as well as "frullato," which imbues passages with a whirlwind-like intensity. Virtuosic mordents punctuate the melodic lines, adding a sense of urgency and vitality to the performance.
Amidst these technical fireworks, the piccolo weaves intricate melodic passages that dart and dance with breathtaking speed and precision. Moments of introspection contrast with bursts of virtuosity, revealing the inner landscape of the performer's psyche.
Soliloqui XVIII is a testament to the indomitable spirit of human expression and the boundless possibilities of musical creation. Through its evocative gestures and daring innovations, it invites the audience to embark on a transformative journey, where the boundaries between performer and listener dissolve, leaving only the resonance of the solitary voice echoing in the silence.
Albert CARBONELL - SOLILOQUI XVIII (for piccolo).pdf