chiaroscuro

Programme notes

The concept of chiaroscuro (Italian for light-dark) is traditionally used in painting and art history to describe a technique that utilizes strong contrast between light and dark to create a sense of three-dimensionality and drama.

Musical Application

In this short piece for two guitars, the term is applied metaphorically:

• "Light" is represented by the bubbling, ringing tones of the harmonics.

• "Darkness" is represented by the contrasting, repeated rhythm.

This creates a sonic tension that mirrors the visual contrast of chiaroscuro.

Commission Details

The piece was commissioned by Crédit Industriel et Commercial – Singapore Branch for a special CD titled Resonances of Asia. A subtle musical reference to the patron is included: the pitches C, E, and B are derived from the acronym of the bank's name (Crédit Industriel et Commercial, where I is represented by the interval of a major third, and the second C is followed by the note B, representing Singapore Branch).

Handwritten sketches and drafts

to be found in chapter V of the white cover, A3 size, 600 pages sketchbook and in the the yellow cover logbook #4

Completion of the composition 

15-IX-2010  

Analysis

see chiaroscuro (2010) under Articles

Recording

link #1 is the audio of the premiere 

Score follower

 link #2

Review

"A duet for two guitars where the concept of light, darkness and varying shades in between was explored. The music was light, often transparent"

Chang Tou Liang, Singapore