Rudsamblog

Tonight we worked on two new pieces:

Other Plans by Lisa Young. A new raga style piece. 

We worked through from start to finish, making good progress. Already starting to take shape. 

Some tricky rhythms, need to subdivide at times. 

Note the very long first time bar through most of page 5. In the repeat you go straight form bar 33 to bar 43, so watch out for that big jump. 

Altos have a particularly tricky rhythm in bar 83 - need to subdivide into quavers. All notes the same length (3 beats) but becomes 4 beats in 3 (if that makes sense!)

The trick with the rhythm in bar 74 (for example - it pops up in other parts through the piece) is not to breath in the quaver rests, or it will be late!

We think the repeat right at the beginning is a typo, instead go from bar 20 back to bar 13. 

I'll forward on the pdf of the music for people to have a look at. Legally we have been allowed to print 20 copies, which Gordon has kindly printed already for us. So people can use it the attached copy to have a look at, but should probably take an 'official' numbered copy at the next rehearsal which I'll bring along. Also, the composer has sent me two mp3 files which will help with rhythms and pronunciation. I'll send these on too. 

A youtube recording of the piece is found here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xhkUg_Kwj-o

I saw a peacock with a fiery tale - the final piece in the Thea Musgrave set. 

We did really well with this - definitely getting used to the strange harmonies and rhythms!

Counting hugely important in this piece. Need to take responsibility to come off ourselves, in the right place to keep the harmonies tidy. 

Careful not to go flat on downward chromatic scales!

When holding long notes (especially men), go quickly into a falsetto sound otherwise will be too heavy. 

Need to practice at home! Like we did with Subway Piranhas, this will be easier if it is nearly off by heart. 

We also listened to a set of pieces for upper voices; Rimas Tropicales by Tania Leon. 

Denise has given out the music, but no decision yet as to which one we will try. Worth having a look over if you have a copy of the music before next rehearsal, in order to make a headstart! Note - this divides into 8 parts at times!!

Here's the recording for a taste! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NEK7O599aNo 

MC