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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.

View Product
Instrumentation: chamber orchestra
Duration: 13'
Year: 2016
Movements: 1
Commissioned By:

American Composers Orchestra


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

 

 

Esmail is the Los Angeles Master Chorale’s 2020-2025 Swan Family Artist in Residence, and was Seattle Symphony’s 2020-21 Composer-in-Residence. She also holds awards/fellowships from United States Artists, the S&R Foundation, the American Academy of Arts and Letters, and the Kennedy Center.

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Contact Details

Requesting a perusal copy of choral music
Email: manager@reenaesmail.com

Offer volume discounts to wholesalers for print orders
Please inquire at: info@reenaesmail.com

All other inquiries
Please email: manager@reenaesmail.com

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