Description
Duration 5:40 min
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The Digital Age (or Information Age) is the current period of humanity, characterised by the rapid dissemination of information through today's utilisation of computers, smart devices and access to the internet. This unique work explores our heavily technology-driven world and the rise of emerging machinery such as electric vehicles, robotics and artificial intelligence. The entirety of the piece is set on a singular, consistent tempo (Tempo giusto) to give a strict, mechanical feel to the performance. The utilisation of dexterous melodic lines and extended harmonies, alongside metallic timbres from muted brass and percussion, illustrate the complex, highly automated society we see today. Whilst not being a metallic instrument, the xylophone also plays a prominent role in capturing the digital feel in the music by mimicking the staccato synth sounds of electronics (bleeps/bloops). All the elements culminate into a uniquely energetic performance that displays the incredible impact the Digital Age has had in leading humanity to its current state. - B.L.
Instrumentation
Piccolo, Flute 1 2, Oboe 1 2, Bassoon 1 2, Eb Clarinet (optional), Bb Clarinet 1 2 3, Bb Bass Clarinet, Eb Contra Alto Clarinet (optional)
Eb Alto Saxophone 1 2, Bb Tenor Saxophone, Eb Baritone Saxophone,
F Horn 1 2 3 4, Bb Trumpet 1 2 3, Trombone 1 2 3 4, Euphonium (BC & TC), Tuba, String Bass
Timpani, Percussion 1 (Drum Set), Percussion 2 (Suspended Cymbal), Percussion 3 (Crash Cymbal, Glockenspiel: Mallets + Bowed), Percussion 4 (Chimes), Percussion 5 (Xylophone)