“La tristesse durera…” (2015)
for orchestra + sampler
Duration: 6 min.
Composition commissioned by the Cottbus State Theatre
WP: 20.11.2015, Cottbus State TheatreCottbus Philharmonic Orchestra, Conductor Clemens Schuldt
Performance material available from Boosey & Hawkes
Programme text
"La tristesse durera..." (2015) for string orchestra, flute (amplified), clarinet (amplified), horns, timpani and sampler
not only refers to Jean Sibelius' 'Valse triste' in its title, but is also written for the same instrumentation. In contrast to the 'Valse triste', however, the instruments that merely support the strings in Sibelius' work, such as the flute, clarinet, horns and timpani, are given a kind of 'special role' in my piece.
In addition, there are 'noises' that are played by the sampler: on the one hand, a breathing noise that runs through the first part, and on the other, the alienated sounds of a voice - apparently emanating from a military vehicle - announcing a curfew.
These two 'a-musical' materials change the context and thus the auditory perspective. Similar to Sibelius' 'Valse triste', which is based on a theatre piece, they evoke a story 'behind' the piece.
The title itself is a quotation from a letter that Vincent van Gogh wrote to his brother shortly before his death.
I. ter Schiphorst
Reviews
Lausitzer Rundschau, 24 November 2015, Rüdiger Hofmann
"...Iris ter Schiphorst's 'La tristesse durera...' is a work commissioned by the Cottbus State Theatre. The composer works with sounds recorded from a sampler and gives instruments such as the flute and horn, which otherwise merely support the strings, much more room for development than usual. But the strings are also very much involved: The musicians fascinate with their skilful percussion and plucking techniques. An unusual sound experience."