The Nth Degree

The Nth Degree was composed in 2022.

Duration: c. 6 minutes.

The Nth degree is an idiom referring to 'extremely - as much as possible.' It was chosen as the title of this work, due to the thematic use of extremes - in elements such as tone colour, style and technicality. The aim, in performance, is to play the first more lyrical section as emotively as possible, with
fragility which is exemplified through the use of harmonics, glisses and bowing techniques like sul ponticello. It should sound beautiful and breakable. In the frantic section, the manic energy and tension is exemplified by the extreme nature of the rhythms, pitch, tempo and technique.

With some moments of clarity within for contrast, such as a humorous and joyful waltz, overall this section is based on the idea of extreme frantic energy. The extreme theme extends to the wide range of techniques required for this piece - such as circular bowing (sliding between sul pont. and norm. bowing), sul ponticello, sul tasto, pizzicato, snap pizz., strumming, harmonic glisses, extreme register, mixed metre, cross rhythms, etc.

Performances:

Jared Adams (Violin I), Tanya Swinton (Violin II), Alison Eom (Viola), Lucy Blomfield (Cello). May 31, 2022. Music Workshop Hall, Sydney, Australia. International Premiere.

Price: $60