In Our Hands, a Canvas is a sonic representation of the philosophical concept that perception is a main facet of human creativity. The melodic and harmonic framework was inspired by Balinese gamelan music, which uses gongan, a cyclical structure, as well as kotekan, or interlocking parts. A technique similar to ombak, the shimmering vibration that occurs when gongs are tuned slightly apart from each other, is also used. The piece alternates between sections of formal structure and sections that give performers freedom within a set of parameters. The meaning of the work is created by the audience’s perceptions. This work was funded in part by the Composer Assistance Program of New Music USA.

 

Women’s Choir
Min. 15 Sopranos, 15 Altos

Piccolo
Flutes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5
Oboe 1, 2
Clarinet 1, 2, 3, 4
Bass Clarinet Bassoon
Alto Sax 1, 2
Tenor Sax
Baritone Sax with low “A” capability

Trumpet 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6
F-Horn 1, 2
Trombone 1, 2, 3, 4
Tuba 1, 2
Euphonium

Piano
Organ
Electric Guitar with individual amp and effects option

Percussion

PART 1
Timpani
Vibraphone (with bow), Tam Tam, Crotales
Percussion 1: 20’’ Suspended Cymbal
Percussion 2: Concert Bass Drum

PART 2
Timpani
Marimba, Crotales
Percussion 1: 20’’ Suspended Cymbal, Tam Tam, Ceng Ceng, Crash Cymbals
Percussion 2: Marching Bass Drum 4, Concert Bass Drum