Publisher

Subito

Year of Composition

1978

Duration

16'

Instrumentation

Soprano, piano, and percussion (tamtam, hi-hat, wind chimes, triangle, tambourine)

Categories

Chamber Music
Vocal Works

Text Writer

Wallace Stevens

Purchase Sheet Music

Print Score (Subito)

Commission & Premiere Info

Permiered at the 92nd Street Y, NYC on April 16, 1978

Press Quotes

"An aurally and visually unique work. Bond has designated specific letters for the five positions assumed by the singer during the performance. The singer moves at specified times in order to play particular percussion instruments while singing or during interludes. This work is fascinating in its use of the voice. Bond moves quickly from cantabile to whispering in the first few bars. The considerable use of sprechstimme and whispered tones is contrasted by a long-spun cadenza. There is also a great deal of dramatic and dynamic contrast. It is rhythmically complex for both performers and has frequent meter changes. The clever use of vocal and percussive effects creates a phantasmagorical work, difficult to interpret but well worth the effort." — New Directions

"An ambitious and diverting monodrama." — NY Times