Kaija Saariaho

Petals

This composition was written quickly in a matter of days, however the composer describes the longer process of writing the piece as unconscious preparation. There are opposite elements on display within the piece, fragile coloristic passages give birth to energetic events with clear rhythmic and melodic character.

More sharply focused figures pass through different transformations then finally merge back to less dynamic but no less intensive filigration. In bringing these compositional elements together and by forcing opposite modes of expression, the composer has aimed to force the listener to stretch their own sensibility.

Work for Cello and Electronics which was premiered by Anssi Karttunen at the Musica Nova Festival, Bremen in May 1988.