Robin: Parchemins de cendre

Description

These ''parchments" are based on three simple thematic elements that, each in their own way, refer to the past and therefore to the main idea behind the piece. The first element is a rhythmic formula - a kind ofticking sound, illustrating the inexorable passing of Time-that occurs under many variants and acts as a benchmark for the entire work. The second element, a melodic theme enunciated by the trumpet in a modal in E Minor tonality, calls to mind a pseudo-medieval or Renaissance chant. The third and last element is a three-note cell developing into a slow, dramatic passacaglia that follows its inexorable, desperate course.

In this piece, the trumpet-player faces three specific challenges. in the first section, the lyrical phrasing puts the performer s musicianship to the test. The second section focuses on good breathing and breath control as long note values progressively reach the most extreme fortissimo. The third and.final section, mostly based on double and triple tonguing, thrives on virtuosity and combines the three main thematic elements i.e. the ancient (no to say 'archaistic ') melodic theme, the passacaglia 'cell' in rhythmic diminutions and the 'ticking 'pattern that undergoes a very last metamorphosis.

Gilles THIÉBLOT