Shimmer (Additional Complete Set)

Shimmer was commissioned by Metamorphosen for their premiere season in 1994-95.Strongly inspired by the energetic string music of Vivaldi, Shimmer uses imitative counterpoint as its basis. However, the harmony, rhythm, and form is structured using a cyclical 10-note series instead of traditional tonality. The piece starts with a four-part canon in mid-range, overlaid with two-part counterpoint in the treble and bass. Undergoing constant variation, the music finally culminates in an extended passage of five voice counterpoint. After a brief recapitulation, it continues building to an energetic and percussive end. The name refers to the shimmering texture that is created through bowing, trilling, and ornamentation.