James Ricci
Three for Three
Duration: 13'
Instrumentation details:
clarinet in Bb
bassoon
piano
Three for Three
Sample pages
Audio preview
Work introduction
As the title implies, it consists of three movements for three musicians (3x3).
Each of the movements evokes a contrasting feeling, mood, and atmosphere.
I. Mantra is fast, loud, rhythmical, and driving. The tempo indication is "Heavy Metal." The "mantra" is subjected to various rhythmic and harmonic contexts throughout the course of the movement.
II. Embla is the namesake of the Danish trio that commissioned the work. According to Old Norse Literature, Embla was created by the Gods from driftwood to be the mother of humanity (similar to Eve in the Old Testament). It is a slow and haunting movement that evokes mystical connections with the past.
III. The third dance-like movement is titled Boléro. It is monothematic and builds gradually over time. Eventually it leads to an intense, climatic conclusion.
-JR