Figure Eight (2019)
for wind octet | duration: 12 minutes
The figure eight was an interesting concept to explore musically. We use this gently curving, symmetrical symbol as a representation of the concept of infinity. The juxtaposition of this balanced and finite figure against the idea of there being a vast multitude of possibilities stretching beyond what the mind can even begin to grasp is a fascinating dichotomy.
The two movements of this work were meant to feel almost like mirror images of each other, but distorted, and a little off-kilter. Within each movement are brief musical ideas that appear, and then are repeated, looped, obscured, and abstracted, circling around on themselves as small glimmers of their infinite potential. The dense, interweaving rhythms of this piece often melt together, creating swirling vortexes of color rather than pieces of perfectly tessellated geometry.
Figure Eight was commissioned by Nomad Session and made possible through the Musical Grant Program, which is administered by the InterMusic SF, and supported by the Heller Foundation, the Hewlett Foundation, the San Francisco Foundation and San Francisco Grants for the Arts.
First performed 05/31/2019 by Nomad Session at Noe Valley Ministry, San Francisco, CA.
