The two main challenges I have encountered in DBR's The Order of an Empty Place have been counting rests and "singing" some of the solo lines. At first, rests were difficult to count because of the complex rhythmic motives happening around the ensemble. In one section, the same theme is played by four players, but each displaced by an eighth note, so they are never moving together. As with many other pieces, the more familiar we get with the piece, the more easily navigated it is. My main challenge, however, is figuring out how to "sing" the solo lines - playing them accurately both rhythmically and pitch-wise, yet gracefully. While the lines aren't particularly technically challenging, they seem to be better-suited for string players, which is not surprising, as DBR is a violinist. I am determined to meet these challenges.
I am excited to continue the rehearsal process with UMWO this week, for the premiere on Thursday, and for our trip to New York on Saturday. Although entire process will be exhausting (we have ten hours of rehearsal between Monday and Thursday), it will be rewarding to have worked as an ensemble with a well-known artist and and up and coming composer. Much of the music we perform is by composers who are no longer living. It is an honor to work with a living composer, as we can receive immediate feedback and learn more about the personal aspects of the work.
