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Reena Esmail

Composer

Avartan

June 19, 2016 by

premiere of Avartan — American Composers Orchestra with film by Neeraj Jain (pictured: Zabie Yamasaki)

Program Notes

In Hindustani music, an avartan is a rhythmic cycle. Each avartan returns to its point of origin, while simultaneously moving the music forward into new territory. 

This work progresses from what I imagine a listener would perceive as characteristically Indian (almost as if it was the transcription of a Hindustani melody and drone), and then moves slowly along the continuum towards incorporating more Western elements, finally ending with only a brass quartet — but musically coming full circle.

The entire work is an avartan of sorts: it moves along every point of a continuum and ultimately returns to the original point with a renewed perspective.

Recording

Excerpt from Avartan

Audio Guide

Audio guides for individual instruments available here.

Instrumentation

winds: 1111
brass: 1111
piano
1 perc (can be played by pianist)
strings (ideal: 5.4.3.2.1 | min: 3.2.2.2.1)

Premiere/Performances

This piece was commissioned by American Composers Orchestra (George Manahan, conductor). It was premiered on April 1, 2016 at Carnegie Hall.

Major subsequent performances include Richmond Symphony (February 2019)

Press/Reviews

Read Reena’s full interview about this piece on ACO’s blog, Sound Advice.

Related Catalog Items

  • Aria
  • Black Iris
  • Concerto for Hindustani Violin and Orchestra
  • Ram Tori Maya – full orchestra

$40.00Select Purchase Options

Instrumentation: chamber orchestra (see breakdown)

Duration: 13′

Year: 2016

Movements: 1

Commissioned by: American Composers Orchestra

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Looking to program Reena’s work? Click here for a full list of orchestral repertoire recommendations, with instrumentation breakdowns.
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Program Notes

Recording

Audio Guide (for performers)

Premiere/Performances

Press/Reviews

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