self portrait (2016)
for shakuhachi (1.8), prepared viola, prepared cello, prepared bass, and string piano
one panel from Francis Bacon’s “Study for a Self Portrait, 1985-86)
Composed in the Fall of 2016, Self Portrait represents an early attempt at bridging my training in Western Classical music and my studies in traditional Japanese music. The composition featured prepared strings, which are inspired by Francis Bacon’s biomorphs. The prepared piano writing is an imitation of the way Bacon would paint his canvases sometimes using rags covered in paint, metal brushes with large teeth etc, creating an otherworldly wash of color. With the shakuhachi at the helm, I attempt to create a series of panels like a triptych where I can present my musical ideas.
Self Portrait was premiered on November 4th, 2016, with Adam Robinson (shakuhachi), Allyson Clare (viola), Brian Sanders (cello), Emilio Guarino (bass), and Humay Gasimzade (piano), at Scoles Street Studio.
Self Portrait is approximately 10 minutes long.
Score & parts can be purchased here