Works » By Title » Q » Quatre images sur le nom de Bach (1982)

A set of four short pieces composed entirely on the Bach motif. Thus the pitch content and ordering of all four movements is restricted to B flat, A, C, and B, a limitation which drove me to concentrate on the development of new rhythmic, dynamic and timbral means to generate compositional variety and interest. Each of the images is based on an algorithm utilizing the power of the Synclavier II Script language's built in bracket looping features. These loops may be nested, that is, it is possible for one or more loops to lie within the compass of larger loops. By carefully planning these loop structures, the composer may create sonic sequences of great length and complexity out of the sparsest of material. Thus one may explore that delicate balance between repetition and variety so critical to minimalist works. With “Quatre images sur le nom de Bach” I am making a statement about what I believe that balance to be. GD