ludus cyclus

ludus cyclus

2024

flute, clarinet, violin, viola, cello, and piano

8'

ludus cyclus begins with the process of composition itself. Rather than drawing from any particular theme or narrative, the piece started from a simple exploration of compositional techniques. The idea of isorhythm forms the basic framework. I created a descending chromatic pattern for each instrument, leading down to its lowest note, and gave each one a different number of notes. On top of that, I added another layer: a sequence of playing techniques, arranged to match one less than the number of notes. Some techniques were shaped by register or sound quality. These overlapping patterns became the backbone of the piece. Up to that point, the work followed a structural, logical approach. From there, I began shaping the rhythms more intuitively, sometimes bending or breaking the rules I had set. It reflects a balance between structure and intuition. ludus cyclus weaves together a small number of patterns in different ways, creating new cycles through their combinations. These cycles, each moving at its own pace, tangle and overlap like a network of many Ouroboros, constantly appearing and disappearing in an organic flow.

for new music new haven

november 7, 2024 | new haven, united states rafael mendez · flute nicole martin · clarinet ria honda · violin nicolas garrigues · viola robin park · cello forrest eimold · piano maya miro johnson · conductor