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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.

Press/Reviews

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

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    Avartan

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Instrumentation: chamber orchestra (see breakdown)

Duration: 13′

Year: 2016

Movements: 1

Commissioned by: American Composers Orchestra

Program Notes

Recording

Audio Guide (for performers)

Premiere/Performances

Press/Reviews

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